Dr. Robert Dallas "Bob" WHITAKER

WHITAKER, Dr. Robert Dallas "Bob"

82, died peacefully, Monday, Jan. 4, 2016, surrounded by his family. Dr. Whitaker had been recently diagnosed with cancer. Bob Whitaker was born in Tampa, March 5, 1933. Bob attended Plant High School, Phillips Exeter Academy, Washington & Lee University, Yale University, and the University of Florida, where he earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry in 1959. Dr. Whitaker taught Chemistry at Washington & Lee and then at the University of South Florida for many years. He loved to teach. He was also active in the faculty union at USF. In addition to science and math, Dr. Whitaker had a passion for history, literature, and the humanities in general. He was a family man, a wonderful conversationalist, and a true gentleman. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Dr. Whitaker is survived by his wife of 55 years, Richie; his three sons, Dallas (Belinda), Barry, and Campbell (Susan); his eight grandchildren, Suzanne (A.J.), Emily, Anne, Rob, Erik, Andrew, Lauren, and Audrey; and his great-granddaughter, Sophia. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Pleasant Whitaker; his mother, Ruth Hutcheson Whitaker; and his brother, Thomas Powell Whitaker.

A memorial service will be held 11 am, Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, 3501 W. San Jose St., Tampa 33629. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Humane Society of Tampa Bay, The American Cancer Society, LifePath Hospice of Tampa, or the charity of your choice.