Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Robert Witherell Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Witherell
Dad May 19th 2007
Sarah Witherell-Nayman
February 28, 2009
Dave Prange
March 27, 2008
Promises Made. Promises Kept.
April 2008
The Godfather
I have been blessed so many ways. A great family and great friends have given me a great life. The thing that has amazed me is where some of these great friends have come from, my work. I have spent 20+ years in this industry and have made some of my closest friends in the world here. I am grateful.
Unfortunately, that number went down by one last month. Bob Witherell of Buffalo Lube associates, a Valvoline Instant Oil Change franchisee, of Buffalo, NY moved on. Uncle Bobby, as some of us affectionately called him, passed away after a long battle with cancer.
How he fought against the dying of the light tells us a lot of what made him special. The death of a close friend often opens you up to the real priorities of life. Even if you didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Uncle Bobby, I hope you will still take the time to learn his lessons.
When he first learned of his cancer, he had one wish, to walk his daughter, Sarah, down the aisle on her wedding day. He accomplished that goal last summer, just one example of the importance his family had in his life. His wife, Debbie, whom he warmly referred to as ‘Mother’, was the center of his life and he adored his son, Scott.
When I attended his funeral, with a few lube friends, I learned a lot more. The true breadth of the well-rounded warmth of this man came out when the priest asked for a show of hands from the flock. “How many of you knew Robert as your Godfather?” he asked. I was awed when hand after hand went up around the church. I stopped counting at 6. At least six couples had chosen Bob to guide their children’s spiritual journey. Instead of Uncle Bobby, he should have been known as The Godfather.
I knew him as a big man with a big laugh, a big smile, a big voice, and a big heart. Kirk Gustie told me that life is like a set of racing tires. They only last so long, and the faster and harder you drive the shorter their lifespan. Bob drove fast and hard and squeezed as much love and life from every day as humanly possible.
Sadly, I remember my last phone call with him. Sad, because I remember we just talked a little business, nothing important, a little housekeeping, that’s all. I wish I had talked more about life, what was happening with his family, with him. What was he thinking about during all this? What was on his mind and heart? I wished I had taken some time to let him know how much he meant to me, but, hey, I didn’t know. I didn’t know this was the phone call, the last time we would speak
We seldom get to know when that last opportunity has come. The last hug, the last conversation, the last kiss, the last goodbye. I guess that is the last lesson he taught me, treat every good bye as the last one.
Thanks for the laughs, love and lessons Uncle Bobby, drive on big guy.
Jennifer Jacobs
March 21, 2008
There seems to be a great silence in my life lately, especially at work. No one here to make fun of me for losing $20 at Mighty Taco or not knowing how to fix a clock. Besides being one of the best Uncles, you were also my insperation in the work field. You taught me so much that I will never forget. Most of all I will never forget the days of you and Dad bursting into tears laughing, telling us all old stories of mischief. That is a memorable laugh. I love you much. Thank You for being a part of my live.
Scott Pytlak
March 20, 2008
Well, I waited until I thought writing here might be easier. Unfortunately, I was wrong. I still think of my friend every day... I miss him incredibly. I regret not keeping in closer contact (I guess it was just my way of avoiding reality). Now, all I can do is pray. Deb, Scott, Sarah - you know you are all in my prayers. I have some wonderfull memories and some great stories. Nevertheless, they are still just memories. But, as I promised my friend - goodbyes aren't forever and WE WILL see each other again.
PS: Who's your buddy? Who's your pal?...
All the cousins from Albany
March 12, 2008
Bob & Scott
March 6, 2008
Bob & Larry
March 6, 2008
4th of July
March 6, 2008
The Boys
March 4, 2008
Mary Jo Witherell
February 25, 2008
Dearest Bob,
You always made everyone laugh. A good time was always had when together.
But most of all, I respect your generous heart. When my Courtney became very ill, you and Deb would bring brownies to the hospital. Also, you would take my son out for a few bears and laughs when he was at the end of his rope. You stood by us for nine months while Courtney was hospitalized.
But most of all Bob, I will NEVER forget the wonderful benefit you so graciously hosted for my extra special grandaughter. All of those things will never be forgotten.
Sending you off to a better place with all my love.
To Deb, Scott, and Sarah, may you find comfort in all the happy memories. I love you all.
Mary Jo Witherell
February 25, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Jamiaca 2006
February 24, 2008
Sarah & Jim's engagement party
February 24, 2008
Gary & Bob
February 24, 2008
Bob & Jacqueline & Absolut 2007
February 24, 2008
Bob & Kirk- May 19,2007
February 24, 2008
1971 The Hoover Dragons
February 24, 2008
January 1982
February 22, 2008
Bob & Deb 1976
February 22, 2008
Father & daughter dance at Sarah's Wedding
February 22, 2008
Singing with the band at Sarah's wedding
February 22, 2008
April 23, 1977
February 22, 2008
Sarah Witherell- Nayman
February 19, 2008
To everyone that has been there for my family it is truly appreciated and we truly see who is there for us when something this tragic happens at such a young age. We love you all. Please listen to the audio which was a tribute to Dad and shows how much he was loved and how much he will be missed. It is not the entire tribute so please send me an email or post your email address and I will send the whole thing. I love everyone who was there for me and the rest of the family. As it becomes more real we will need your love even more.
The Vavoline Man
February 18, 2008
Bob & Scott
February 18, 2008
Riding the coaster
February 18, 2008
Bob & Dave
February 18, 2008
Bob & Jerry
February 18, 2008
Darian lake
February 18, 2008
Bob & Scott
February 18, 2008
Great friends
February 18, 2008
Bob & Sarah
February 18, 2008
Maid of the mist
February 18, 2008
The Bob's & his evil twin
February 18, 2008
Bob & Absolut
February 18, 2008
Deb ( mother)
February 18, 2008
To everyone that has helped me in the past month:
the cards,words of sympathy, the food, the beautiful flowers , the masses, the Hospice donations, the money for masses or Hospice, who attened the wake, the funeral& came to Hospice for Bob's last days.To Paul Maurer & Carl Russo who did a radio tribute to Bob- I truly Thank all of you, you are friends that many people don't have & Bob & I were very blessed to have all of you as our friends.
Jane Nicholas-who watched Bob daily so I could work, what would have done without you thanks
Missy Woods the feast(spaghetti, macaroni salad,angel hair salad,bundtcake, chocolate mint pie, roast beef,& rolls- did I miss something probally) you made so much for us to have during the wake it is the sweetest thing I love you for that.Thanks
Jan Sebastino-your famous spaghetti sauce with meatballs & sausage, homemade Chicken noodle soup, the eggs, the chili.It fed my large family during Hospice & the wake& the days after.Your are a great friend Thanks
Kathy Doherty- the coffee cakes & my favorite coconut donuts, it gave us our breakfasts for 2 days Thanks
Judy Wolanins the different food wraps, it saved us the first day Thanks
Lisa Jacobs-brownies,the luncheon meat, pop & rolls, & all the crocks pots to heat the food so it was warm when we arrived-Thanks
Mary Ann Hess- the wine( I needed it)& the huge dish of all kinds of candies & cookies.Thanks
Sharon Gallo- the piza & wings they were gone the minute I put they out.Thanks
Marlene Kondziela- the chicken mushroom lasagna,nut bars-the best Thanks
Lynn Nowak the coffee cake Thanks
Mary Witherell- the ham Thanks
Mary Jacobs the plates Save the day
To my children Scott,& Sarah,& my son in law Jim & future daughter in law Cheryl who were they for me Shoveled my drive way, vacuumed by house, did my dishes,cleaned up.
Thank-you I Love You so much
Katie, Nicky, Tom, and Marlene Kondziela
February 18, 2008
Remember Me
To the living, I am gone.
To the sorrowful, I will never return.
To the angry, I was cheated.
But to the happy, I am at peace.
And to the faithful, I have never left.
I cannot speak, but I can listen.
I cannot be seen, but I can be heard.
So as you stand upon a shore,
Gazing at a beautiful sea, Remember Me.
As you look upon a flower and admire its simplicity, Remember Me.
Remember Me in your hearts,
yours thoughts and your memories of the times we loved,
the times we cried,
the times we fought,
the times we laughed.
For if you always think of me, I will never have gone.
We all love you very much, and you will never be forgotten.
Annie Manko
February 16, 2008
Sarah & family - I just recently heard of the passing of your father. Although we have not talked since graduation, I want you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers. You father was a great man, so funny and always so kind. God Bless you all. ~ Annie Manko
Rachel Jacobs
February 14, 2008
God saw you getting tired
and a cure was not meant to be,
So he put his arms around you
and whispered "Come to Me".
With tearful eyes we watched you,
as we saw you pass away.
Although we loved you deeply,
we could not make you stay.
Your Golden Heart stopped beating,
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,He only takes the best.
Copyright © 1997 Therese Williamson
Some people make the world special just by being in it, you were very loved and will be missed.
Dancing the night away
February 14, 2008
Scott Witherell
February 14, 2008
Thank You everyone for your prayers and support....it really helps
Jayne Slomovitz
February 13, 2008
Debbie & Family,
I was so sad to hear of Bob's passing. Bob was one of those larger than life guys. I have many fond & fun memories of him on all those Radio Ad trips we took. Please know that you are in my thoughts & prayers.
JIM WEINRICH
February 12, 2008
BOB WAS AN INSPIRATION TO US HERE IN THE OKLAHOMA LUBE STORES. HE TAUGHT US MUCH AND WE KNEW WE HAD MUCH MORE TO LEARN FROM HIM. HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED HERE IN OKLAHOMA CITY
jay costas
February 11, 2008
Debbie and kids,
I was a member in Bob's oil change group. Our last conversation was about him potentially putting in a "doggie wash"! The guys in our group just loved Bob. He was a lot of fun to be around. Our thoughts are with you.
Ken Nice
February 11, 2008
Sarah, Jim and family -
I was very sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Julie Williams
February 11, 2008
Uncle Bob has a special place in a lot of hearts and we will miss him. My family and I send our thoughts and prayers to you at this time.
Bill Markowski
February 10, 2008
Debbie and family,
The thoughts and prayers of all the members of the WNY GTO Club are with you and your family. Bob was a great guy and will truly be missed.
Joseph & Peggy Patterson
February 10, 2008
Dear Debbie, Scott and Sarah -- Joe and I are very sorry to hear that Bob is gone but he fought a hard battle, one that is familiar to myself and my family and now Joe and his family. We have to focus on all the good times and great laughs and many memories that have been made and keep them close to our hearts and somehow with time your pain and sorrow will turn once again to joy and laughter with just one thought of BOB. Joe & Peggy
Fran & Carin Mulvey
February 10, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you struggle to understand. May the fondest remembrances shine through your sorrow and give you strength to carry on.
We will always MISS You and we LOVE You!
February 10, 2008
Father and Mother
February 10, 2008
Melissa woods
February 10, 2008
Mother,Scott and Sarah,
You guys were my second family and I am sorry for the loss of Father! I love you all Dearly and will always be in my prayers! Love Missi, Christopher and Marek
June Pearl
February 10, 2008
Our sympathy and prayers for peace and strength for the family of Bob Witherall. Bob was one of the most enjoyable fellows we ever met and our fun times on trips and the memories we have are everlasting. June and Bill Pearl
TRACY AND TODD SHELDON
February 10, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Patricia Murray
February 10, 2008
Deb and family,
The love you have with "smoothie" transcends this life into the next.
May the comfort of your love for Bob and Dad, carry you through these difficult times.
Heaven has gained a wonderful soul..
Blessings and highest regards,
Patty Murray
Showing 1 - 57 of 57 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Witherell's name
Memorial Events
for Robert Witherell
Funeral services provided by:
Paul A. Kloc Blossom Chapels Inc.4680 Clinton Street, West Seneca, NY 14224
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Witherell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
