Robert M. Whitman

Robert M. Whitman, age 86, of Newark, DE passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, November 3, 2011 at Forwood Manor in Wilmington. He was born on January 26, 1925 in Springfield, Massachusetts to the late William Paris and Bertha Ellen (Morse) Whitman.

Bob served in the United States Navy from 1943-1946 when the war ended. After serving in the Navy he graduated from William & Mary, where he met his wife, BettyLee. He worked as a chemist for over forty years, retiring from the State Public Health Lab in Dover. After retiring, Bob volunteered with the Delaware Environmental Alliance in Newark, DE.

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Lee (Herb) Whitman of Newark, DE and his beloved children, Marcia E. Whitman of Austin, TX, David P. Whitman of Beverly, NJ, Patricia L. Whitman of Wilmington, DE, Robin M. Sulzer (and her husband Curt) of Linwood, NJ and Ronald M. Whitman (and his wife Laura) of Seattle, WA, and eight grandchildren, Kelly, Daniel, Timothy, Kyle, Nathan, Kara, Ethan, and Louise.

Bob was preceded in death by his brother, William P. Whitman, Jr.

We appreciate the loving care provided by the staff at VITAS and Forwood Manor. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to VITAS Hospice Charitable Fund c/o R.T. Foard & Jones F.H., 122 W. Main St., Newark, DE 19711.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 at Forwood Manor Senior Living Facility at 1312 Marsh Road, Wilmington, DE 19810. At a later date Bob’s remains will be interned at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear, DE.