On December 27, 2023 the sun set on a remarkable soul, Robert (Bob) Edward Whitney, Sr, aged 87, of Fernley, Nevada, who unexpectedly embarked on a new journey to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His departure leaves an immense void in our world.

On the radiant day of February 27, 1936, the sun beamed its brightest light as Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Whitney of Baldwin, WI, joyously welcomed the arrival of Robert Edward Whitney Sr. 

Robert Sr. and his family moved to California as a small child and settled in Rio Vista, California - where shortly later he would meet the love of his life.

In second grade Bob’s fate was already set - as he met Norma Maghoney whom he married in 1957 for 67 long, loving and devoted years. They were married in Isleton, CA at St. Therese Catholic Church. They say soulmates aren't just born, they’re born for each other. That was Bob and Norma.

Robert graduated from Rio Vista High School with honors, participating and excelling in football where he would go on to receive multiple athletic and academic scholarships to various colleges. Bob ultimately chose to attend Humboldt State University in Acadia, California.

Bob’s love for football never ceased, forever a fan of the green and gold - Green Bay Packers.

Bob and Norma created a beautiful and devoted family. Together Bob and Norma had 2 children. He is survived by his beloved Norma Whitney of Fernley, NV; his loving and loyal daughter Catherine (Whitney) Grimes and her husband Chuck Grimes of Sparks, NV; a loving son whom naturally took after Bob’s athletic ability Robert Whitney Jr. of Fernley, NV; two adoring grandchildren - who saw Bob as more of a second father - Carington Grimes and Whitney (Grimes) Korda of Sparks, NV and Whitney’s husband Shandor Korda; two great granddaughters, the apple of Bob’s eye - Vienna Korda and Ophelia Korda, whom he lovingly called his ‘little girls’; Robert Jr’s daughter, Robert Sr.’s granddaughter Alicia Dickerson and her Children, Robert Sr’s great grandchildren, Mitchell Black - who is serving in the U.S. Navy, Carleigh & Curtis Dickerson of Gardnerville, NV.

Bob is survived by his brother Billy & his wife Bea of Hawthorne, NV & Don of Sparks. He was preceded by his mother and father, brothers Sivern of Martinez, CA, Earl of LeBanon, OR, Jerry of Lincoln, CA, Wilbur & Pete of Sparks, NV; and his sisters, Alice, Anna Mae, Shirley and Linda - all of Sparks, NV; also surviving are countless nieces, nephews and cousins as well as his precious four legged friends - Bentley and Little Girl.

Bob began his career in the moving business in Fallon, NV which led to a transfer as manager to Las Vegas office. After 2 years in Las Vegas Bob was transferred back to Fallon. Bob and Norma loved Fallon and the people and remained there for 20 years.

While in Fallon, Bob became very active & instrumental in youth baseball - from Farm League to Babe Ruth. He was very proud of his boys as they brought home many championships. A lover of sports - Bob was also active in the Fallon bowling league as well as men’s softball.

He loved golf and was very proud of his “hole in one,” he made during a tournament.

Bob & Norma were active members of the Galloping Gourmet Golf Club in Subic Bay.

When they closed the Fallon Moving Office - Bob went into the grocery business. He later changed careers, and went into civil service at NAS Fallon as a Personal Property Officer. After spending many years at NAS Fallon he was transferred to the Naval Supply Center, in Oakland CA.

He advanced in his career quickly, excelling, as he did all things, and was transferred to the United States Naval Supply Depot at Subic Bay Philippines under the command of United States Commander Naval Base Philippines as Deputy Director of Personal Property (later promoted to Director). Bob, received many accolades for his expertise and performance on duty.

As Desert Shield / Desert Storm broke out Bob and the entire base working day and night made a difference to expedite the handling and movement of supplies for the troops.

Bob was an intricate part in the closing of Subic Bay. He was one of the few who were held to ensure all personal property for military and civilian families was expedited to their destination due to the devastation and eruption of Mt Pinatubo.

Bob remained in Subic Bay and was one of the few U.S. personnel to witness the closing ceremony of the base and lowering, and removal of the U.S. flag.

While Bob and Norma were in the Philippines, they took the opportunity to adventure to many far east countries - a time Bob would speak so fondly of until the end.

After retirement, Bob & Norma traveled through many states, as well as Canada and a cruise to Alaska. Most of their travels involved his brother’s Wilbur and Earl and their wives Sheryl and Esther. Their adventures were measured by love and laughter - which there was an abundance of both.

Bob and Norma enjoyed countless trips with their family - from house boating to summer stays in Hawaii, memories all will look back on fondly.

In the end Bob was so much more then any words on paper could ever paint.

Whatever Bob did he excelled at and he did it with love and passion. Whatever he did, it was planned out and methodical: it may have taken a few extra moments but it was done right.

While ‘Papa fix it’ can’t mend these broken hearts, we know Jesus had a seat right next to him - as only the best can.

And in the end…may every touchdown be accompanied by the sound of hands clapping and joyous laughter, like Bob. May each task be done to the best of your abilities, like Bob. May you choose love today, and everyday, like Bob. May each day be a testament to the greatness of Bob – a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

Great Grief is born only of great love…and oh, was there love.

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