Robert Sterling Whitlock

Robert Whitlock passed away on October 9, 2023. He was born on November 25, 1944 to Gwen and Bob Whitlock in York, Maine.

After graduating from Irving High School, he continued his education at UTEP. His metallurgical engineering degree was followed by professional managerial developmental programs at the University of Utah and the University of Connecticut.

While at UTEP, he met his wife, Lynda Bluth. They were married and sealed as eternal companions in the Mesa Arizona Temple.

Feeling a close connection to nature, Robert focused his life on protecting the earth's resources. He believed that earth is not only place worth living: it is a place worth loving. During his life, he spent countless hours exploring seasides and mountainsides, parched deserts and weathered rock caverns.

Robert translated his love for the earth by actively committing to work tirelessly to protect it. He managed plastic recycling plants, one of which was the largest in the country at that time, as well as a paper recycling facility and a hazardous waste disposal facility. He generated a method to reuse slag mineral wastes and developed operational policies and procedures for numerous landfills.

Although Robert held the titles of vice president, director, general manager, and plant manager, his favorite title was father. He adored his children and grandchildren and to their delight invented captivating games filled with fun and laughter, especially at his Dad jokes.

Robert served in various Stake and Ward callings as well as serving missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, always living as a faithful follower of the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Robert leaves a legacy of hard work, church devotion and family dedication which those of us left behind will carry on.

Robert is predeceased by his parents, Gwen and Bob Whitlock, his brother, Rodney A. Whitlock, his daughter, Shelley E. Avenell (Steven), and his granddaughter, Katie E. Avenell.

Robert is survived by his wife, Lynda, and four children; Chad M. Whitlock, (Bonnie), Jon T. Whitlock, (Jamie), Kimberly E. Jones, Cory R. Whitlock (Angela), and four grandchildren, Jaden Whitlock, Jada Jones, Jaxon Jones, and Elijah Whitlock.

Robert will be remembered in a private family burial. En lieu of flowers, plant a tree in a forest, Arbor Day Foundation