Robert Whitlatch

Robert ("Bob") Bruce Whitlatch - a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle, colleague, mentor, and friend - passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on July 18, 1948, in Boise, Idaho, Bob lived a life rich in love, purpose, and dedication to his family, friends, and community. After spending many years in Mystic, Connecticut, he and his wife, Ann, retired to Hobe Sound, Florida, in 2015, where they embraced a new chapter of their lives.

Bob was a man of exceptional character, marked by his unwavering integrity, and intellectual curiosity (a "spark," as his family called it). He had a unique ability to connect with others, offering wisdom and a helping hand to those in need. Bob left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Professionally, Bob was a respected Professor of Marine Sciences at the University of Connecticut at Avery Point, where he dedicated over 40 years to advancing the field of marine biology. After earning his B.S. from the University of Utah in 1970, his M.S. from the University of the Pacific in 1972, and his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in 1976, Bob's career as a benthic ecologist took flight. His research focused on animal-sediment interactions, the trophic dynamics of deposit-feeding invertebrates, shellfish ecology, invasive species, and community ecology. He collaborated widely, both nationally and internationally. He had a penchant for developing unique sampling methods and devices (like the creatively named "ELVIS") to address important questions. He also served the research community on editorial boards of journals such as the Journal of Sea Research and Journal of Marine Research, and on review panels for agencies such as the National Science Foundation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. Bob was deeply committed to advising and mentoring the next generation of marine scientists, always pushing for excellence and inspiring those around him.

Outside of his academic life, Bob was an avid golfer, relishing the successes, challenges, and camaraderie found on the course. He also found great joy in maintaining his BMW (license plate "WORMZ4," a nod to "Team Benthos"), rooting for the New York Yankees, nurturing colorful flowers and plants on his lanai, and staying connected with friends.

Above all, Bob was deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Weber Whitlatch; his sister, Geri Whitlatch Goertzen; his brothers-in-law, William Lloyd Weber, III, and Chuck Goertzen; his daughters, Hilary and Morgan Whitlatch; and many other loving relatives and friends.

Though Bob is no longer with us, his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the UConn Department of Marine Sciences (https://marinesciences.uconn.edu/giving/).