Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
1945 - 2020
1945 - 2020
Obituary
Guest Book
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Carla King
July 2, 2025
Dr Whitson became my primary doctor in 2017. He was the only doctor I ever felt comfortable enough with to explain my mental health issues to and the only one to ever listen and not say that everything that was wrong with me was because I was overweight or a smoker. He understood I was poor and couldn't afford a lot of things so he never pushed for useless tests or expensive medications, he helped me within my means. He never failed to make me laugh or explain things in a way I understood. I still think of him regularly, and I haven't found another doctor that I've liked since.
Family, if you read this, I hope you take great pride in having had Robert in your lives. He enriched mine greatly just as a short visit patient.
William Dvorak
September 16, 2024
Dr Whitson was our family doctor many years ago. We appreciated his personality and ability to make us feel comfortable. Is there a way we can still request copies of our medical records? If anyone knows please email me with information.
Kris Prgomet
December 25, 2022
Robert Whitson was such a wonderful man and Doctor that even when my son and I (both patients of DOC) would run into him in public he always made the time to say hi and chat. This was so nice and especially helpful as he was very aware of my son being attacked by 6-8 other boys more than once (middle school aged at the time) that made him become incredibly shy especially in public. I always thanked him for his niceties and efforts and he always would tell me "Anything for the boy, just let me know". He was truly a gifted and blessed human. He had such a positive impact on my son and I that he still speaks of him to this day. Way to go DOC! And as always THANK YOU.
Fabienne Hickman
November 23, 2022
Hi. My name is Fabienne Hickman. I had the pleasure of meeting doctor Whitson in 2016 and he treated me for an illness I had for 11 years. He treated me with kindness and as a friend helping a friend. I was embarrassed to come to see any doctor for my illness and Dr. Whitson cared for my vulnerable and fragile state of mind. I do appreciate his car greatly down to this day and for the rest of my life. He will be greatly missed for his kind attitude. Rest easy, my friend.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Teresa
February 2, 2021
I had the honor of meeting Dr Whitson for a routine checkup in 2019. I’m new to the Tri’s. I really enjoyed the visit. We talked for over 30 minutes! What Dr nowadays does this? He was a unique Dr and very much appreciated . He was human and who doesn’t appreciate this in the world we live in today. RIP Dr Whitson
It was a true honor to meet you.
Mary
February 1, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the family. He will be greatly missed. He was funny, caring, compassionate and my advocate. For years he was mine and my late husband’s doctor. He saw me through my journey of becoming completely disabled and made sure I always I had the paperwork, medication and referrals I needed. He helped my late husband and I through his diagnosis of terminal cancer with such compassion. He made sure I sought mental health care for my depression after I was widowed and took care of all my medication needs. I doubt I Will ever meet a doctor or a man like him again.
Mark Layne
January 25, 2021
You will be dearly missed! If you know Dr Whitson you understand what a brilliant mind he had but was still a down to earth man. He was easy to carry on a conversation with on about any subject. Such a great loss!
Evelyn
January 25, 2021
Dr Whitson is irreplaceable. He will always be the light I try to find in every future physician. You knew when you had your time with him he was going find the answer. He involved me in every decision while always making sure he covered every possibility. I always hoped he would live forever so we could talk about Mexico and I would have someone I trusted implicitly with my serious health issues. His passing has left a huge whole in the tri cities medical field. Irreplaceable
Bruce Butler
January 18, 2021
Dr Whitson was my personal physician for several decades, he was a very good Dr & a very great guy...we used to crack each other up with stories of our life. He will be sorely missed by me & others he impacted with his bedside manner, I will miss him and his comfortable personality, as I'm sure his other patients have expressed. Goodbye Dr Whitson, I'm blessed to have had you in my life..shine on!
william Gowey
January 16, 2021
I learned last night from a friend that my Doctor and Friend Has gone on his last hike to the mountains. I will miss him I am alive today because of something he noticed during a visit for an entirely different reason. He has been my friend and confident for many years. He helped me thru my wife's death ten years ago not with medicine but as a trusted friend to talk things out with. He was a kind man who remembered who you were as a person not just a client. He remembered your ups and downs and always had a good word to say when he saw you in the office or on the street. He was a lion in the medical profession and a true scholar and gentleman. Goodbye my friend and advisor YOU will be ever in my heart I learned from you what every man should strive to be and hope to see you again on the other side. An old navy saying on passing "Sailor Rest your Oars, We will take it from here"
With great Respect for a true friend
Bill Gowey
Cheyenne
January 14, 2021
When I moved here in 2019 I was desperate to find a Dr. Someone to help me get my mental health under control. He was the only one willing to see me. He had quite a unique sense of humor that always hit me later. He was a kind person, and always seemed to believe in me. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone with this man's help. I'm sad I never got the opportunity to thank him. My condolences to the family. Know that he meant something to many. You don't grieve alone.
Mary S
January 13, 2021
Dr. Whitson has been my doctor since I moved to the Tri-Cities at 3 years old in 1994. He was funny, smart, otherworldly and quite kooky. I never expected him to be gone so soon and I’m so grateful I was able to see him a few months before his passing.
Like others have mentioned, Whitson made me believe I had self worth and he was one of my biggest fans.
I’ll miss him so much and it’s obvious he had such an impact on his other patients too. Wonderful, wonderful guy.
Lots of love.
Mary S
January 13, 2021
Dr. Whitson has been my doctor since I moved to the Tri-Cities at 3 years old in 1994. He was funny, smart, otherworldly and quite kooky. I never expected him to be gone so soon and I’m so grateful I was able to see him a few months before his passing.
Like others have mentioned, Whitson made me believe I had self worth and he was one of my biggest fans.
I’ll miss him so much and it’s obvious he had such an impact on his other patients too. Wonderful, wonderful guy.
One love.
Amanda O'Neil
January 13, 2021
Dr. Whitson was a very friendly, caring and intuitive man. He took very good care of my family as our PCP and he will be missed.
William Craven
January 12, 2021
My deepest condolences to Dr. Whitson’s children, grandchildren and sisters. He was my doctor for the past 26 years and I came to look to him as a friend. I will never forget his intelligence, his kindness, his compassion, and his unique sense of humor. Dr. Whitson was everything you could want in a doctor and so much more. He took the time to know his patients as real people. I took my son to see Dr. Whitson a few years ago when he had outgrown seeing his pediatrician. My son was amazed at how much the doctor knew and remembered about our family - details of vacations, Boy Scout adventures and stories shared over the decades. I feel extremely lucky to have has Dr. Whitson on my side for so many years. I will miss him. Rest in peace Robert Whitson.
Daphne Jackson
January 6, 2021
Dr. Whitson was my mother's doctor, and when my doctor fired me for being a bad diabetic, my mom recommended Dr. Whitson to me. He told me that he would never quit me, no matter how bad of a diabetic I was. He was one of my biggest supporters. He once offered to be my agent when and if I ever took my talent to Hollywood because he thought I had what it took to become famous. LOL!!! :) I loved this man. He is a wonderful human being. I will miss his presence here on earth. My prayers for strength and comfort during this sad time go out to his family. Gone but never forgotten. Rest in Peace.
Brian Oberg
January 4, 2021
I too will be missing Dr. Whitson. My family has benefited for over 20 years from his knowledge, wisdom, and compassion when we needed healing. He touched many peoples lives.
Pedro y Rosa campos
January 4, 2021
Mis condolencias para sus hijos y familia y sus trabajodores lo vamos a extrañar fue nuestro doctor y amigo por más de 18 años nuestro doctor familiar lo vamos a Extrañar nuestatas oraciones para la familia Whitson De parte de la familia campos bendiciones
Paula Bachelor
January 4, 2021
Dr. Whitson was my primary care physician for nearly 25 years. He provided excellent medical support, and really cared about me as a person. His compassion, his willingness to discuss medical options, and his general outlook on life were much appreciated by my husband and I, and we will sincerely miss him.
John, Linda and Dyllan Clark
January 2, 2021
We will miss your common sense, humor, and calm and caring spirit. The intelligent conversation, sweet smile and direct eye contact. Twenty five years is a long time, every visit we enjoyed in one way or another. Your comfy couches, good music and plenty of reading material made that waiting room so cozy. We will miss you so much Robert, nobody will do it better.
Connie Self
January 1, 2021
Dr. Whitson was my primary care physician and friend for 11 years. He always took the time to listen and advise. He not only saved my life once, but twice, but that's what hero's do. I will my visits and the conversations, sometimes hilarious and crazy that we shared. He had true compassion, and truly loved what he did. My condolences go out to not only his children and family, but also his office staff. Fly high and my friend, you will be greatly missed.
Connie Self
Ronald Workman
December 31, 2020
DR. Whitson was a very caring doctor and person. He was always there for me in my time of need or just to talk or to guide, (He was real). he cared. I will miss you my doctor and my friend rest in peace. What a life well lived. My thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family.
Ron Workman
Paula Leighton
December 31, 2020
Dr. Whitson was my doctor for over 20 years. I feel lucky that I had such a great doctor and friend for that long. He was my real life super hero, he always made me feel safe and well cared for. I enjoyed going to see him and miss him so much already. I trusted this man with my life, and could tell him anything. He made me laugh through my tears many times. My sincerest condolences to his family and staff during this difficult time, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Susannah Moore
December 31, 2020
My heart is so sad. I loved Dr. Whitson. Myself and my children have been seeing him for 27 years. The first time I met him I said, "Hi." And he said, "I am NOT." His humor won me over and I have felt like he was very much a part of our family as he knew our history so well. Even when my oldest left for the Air Force he always asked me about him when I saw him. I will miss the brown leather couches and gentle guitar music that used to play in the waiting room. He had soo many books and so much knowledge, we talked about many things. I knew alot about his life too as he shared personal stories and made you feel so warm and welcome. Sometimes I would get really frustrated with him, and I would tell him so. He took it in stride and always took the time to understand my frustrations. I have many fond memories of him and am so, so sad. I loved the person who shared the picture of Dr Whitson in his biking gear at the end of the day. I would see him on his bike and always chuckle. That picture warmed my heart. He was so quirky, smart, funny and warm. My heart is torn up. :-( He was more special than most and I will never find another Dr like him, nor know another person such as Dr Robert Whitson. Sleep well my friend, and thank you for sharing so much of yourself over the years. You enriched my life in so many ways. Much love to you and condolences to his family, know he was much loved!
Sandy Kluver
December 31, 2020
My sincere condolences to the family during this most difficult time.
Sandy Gora
December 31, 2020
After reading the memories from Roberts patients, I realized this is a tragedy not only for Roberts immediate family but also for his any friends and patients! We all need to hold onto our memories to keep him in our lives. When we were growing up, we were Navy brats and often only had each other for our play time. When we used an old mattress for our ship, Robert was always the captain and kept us safe from the unknown. It sounds like his formative years served him well. May God grant all who loved and knew him peace.
Bethany Harrington
December 31, 2020
My heart goes out to my cousins for the loss of their dad ♥ Your memories will always be close to your heart !!! Love your cousin Bethany from Maine
Kathy Peot
December 31, 2020
I knew Dr. for many years from caring for his patients at Kadlec and became his patient a few years back. He truly will be missed!! I’m very sorry to the entire family.
Barbara Van Zee
December 31, 2020
Even though we did not know Dr. Whitson, he sounds like a wonderful man. Sending our sympathy to his children, especially, his boys, Hunter, Forrest and Shaman. Hugs and prayers as you say, "Good-bye" to your father. Thinking of all of you.
Rod and Barb (Lambert) Van Zee
Shawn Mickle
December 31, 2020
I am still in shock! My heart is deeply saddened. When my husband told me this news, I did not believe him. Dr. Whitson was so vivacious, he brought energy to every space he entered. I think he was the smartest person I have ever known, at the same time he had more common sense than the likes of many! He was quite frankly an amazing human being. He could talk about anything and he was quick to laugh. But what I admired and respected most about him was his compassion. He listened respectfully, was never condescending, and would not stop short of a finding the best possible solution. I can't begin to imagine the loss his family and staff must feel. My heart and prayers go out to them. I will miss this great man terribly. One day Higher Power will bring us together again to walk the Red Road. Until then my friend.
Shawn M.
The picture below is Dr. Whitson ready to ride his bike home one day this year when I was his last patient of the day.
Mark Jaeger
December 30, 2020
Dr. Whitson was a special individual. He was a good doctor but also a human being that one could talk to and joke about. I only learned today of his passing. I will miss his wit and humor.
Stacy Kris Prgomet
December 30, 2020
He was the best physician I ever had and he saved my life a few times. I truly respected him and definitely miss him beyond words. Rest in peace DOC.
Sherri
December 30, 2020
I remember him from the store I worked at called Liquidation World. He and his young daughter were regulars. Im sad to hear this. He was nice to talk to
Kash
December 30, 2020
He was an excellent man! Only my care provider for a little over a year. Made me laugh every visit, I loved his candor. I love you and your family and am so sorry you are gone. You were a great man!
Tylor Ayre
December 30, 2020
Robert Whitson was my primary care physician for the last 5 years. He's helped me through many difficult times, he always treated me with dignity and compassion , and was a geniuely good person. My condolences go out to his family during this time of greif, and I wish you all the best during these difficult times.
Sincerely,
Tylor Ayre
Lorrie Reid
December 30, 2020
Dr. Whitson cared so much about each of his patients. He was downright honest, hilarious, and caring. My parents discovered his practice in the mid 2000’s and he provided my whole family with reassurance and support through every illness for years. He cared about how we felt, what our goals were, and was always quick with a joke or a short story to keep our minds off of any scary situation. He was an all around amazing doctor who will be missed and spoken about during family get-togethers for many years to come. Our hearts reach out to his family in such a difficult time. His memory lives on in all of us, all of the lives he has touched.
Duane, Lorrie, Kenna and Shelby Reid
Lorrie Reid
December 30, 2020
Dr. Whitson cared so much about each of his patients. He was downright honest, hilarious, and caring. My parents discovered his practice in the mid 2000’s and he provided my whole family with reassurance and support through every illness for years. He cared about how we felt, what our goals were, and was always quick with a joke or a short story to keep our minds off of any scary situation. He was an all around amazing doctor who will be missed and spoken about during family get-togethers for many years to come. Our hearts reach out to his family in such a difficult time. His memory lives on in all of us, all of the lives he has touched.
Duane, Lorrie, Kenna and Shelby Reid
Leela Sasaki
December 30, 2020
I was shocked and saddened to see Dr. Whitson's obituary in the newspaper today. I don't think I've met another physician quite like him - always welcoming, thorough explanations, always taking the time to make sure all my questions were addressed, and that dry humor. Like so many of his other patients, I will miss him very much. My condolences to his family and to his staff.
Duane, Lorrie, Kenna and Shelby Reid
December 30, 2020
Dr. Whitson cared so much about each of his patients. He was downright honest, hilarious, and caring. My parents discovered his practice in the mid 2000’s and he provided my whole family with reassurance and support through every illness for years. He cared about how we felt, what our goals were, and was always quick with a joke or a short story to keep our minds off of any scary situation. He was an all around amazing doctor who will be missed and spoken about during family get-togethers for many years to come. Our hearts reach out to his family in such a difficult time. His memory lives on in all the lives he has touched.
Erin Greenwade
December 29, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I am so blessed to have had the chance to know such a great Doctor. He was the best. Very caring and made me laugh too.
There will never be another like him.
Rest In Peace Dr. Whitson... until we meet again.
Erin Greenwade
December 29, 2020
He was my Physician off and on since 2001.
His sense of humor made me feel more comfortable being there, but never felt more understood by any other Doctor. Dr. Whitson really helped me get on the right path to a better and healthy life. Miss him so much. So much Thanks to him.
Karen Mc.
December 29, 2020
25 years as my doctor an friend. I will miss my appointments with you so much. Such a caring doctor, you always listened and always had time an lots of smiles. You gave me a shot that I never felt, just because you new i was afraid of them. The only Doc I trusted. Rest easy now
Jesse and Nicole Lynde
December 29, 2020
I called today to make an appointment when I first heard of Dr. Whitson's passing. It took the breath out of me. I met Dr. Whitson when his first practice was with Randy West in Richland. He became mine and my wife's doctor shortly thereafter. What a kind, funny and likable person he was and will always be remembered by us as a genuinely caring man, who cared deeply about his practice and those he cared for so well. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and wonderful staff. I will truly miss his joking manner. He always put a smile on our faces, no matter how we felt.
Jim & Vicki Castleberry
December 29, 2020
We are so saddened by this! He was such a good Dr. and was very knowledgeable, we will miss is humor, he was a great Dr. and good man.
Ashley
December 29, 2020
He really was a great & caring doctor. He will be very missed.
My daughter will always remember the chocolate gold coins he would give out when she accompanied me to my appointments.
Ken Spencer Jr
December 29, 2020
Dr Whitson was a good friend a great Doctor and a person that I will miss. He was what I would call an old time Doctor. He was not just there for the office visit he was there when ever you needed him. He will be missed by not only his patients but all those that knew him. See you later old friend. May you have a safe trip home. Will truly miss you
A. Valero
December 29, 2020
Chocolate coins, Baskin Robbins, and a playful spirit. My children would always get excited to go with me when I had a Dr. Whitson visit. A true gentle giant. There is a hole in my heart as I try to comprehend that there will no longer be those times I looked forward to, in visiting with my uniquely, genuine relationshiop with my friend and Dr. Visits always consisted of: playful banter, many laughs, family, work, politics, and anything else. Grateful to him for always providing me with encouragement in accomplishing my dreams of getting a college education and to continue my passion for plants. But most importantly, I will miss his compassionate nature.
Rhonda Parker
December 29, 2020
Dr Whitson has been my family's doctor for over ten years. We were saddened to learn of his passing. He was always sweet to my kids. My husband and I would always go to him when we were needing answers because if he didn't know how to answer those medical questions himself he would research things and figure out where to go from there. He really listened to his patients and his staff were always nice. He will not only be greatly missed by my family but by many people in the community.
Mikelle Cook
December 29, 2020
Dr. Whitson had been my family doctor for many years. One of his most important qualities, I believe, is that he listened and did not treat the patient as an uninformed participant. I am not unacquainted with medical terminology and the workings of the human body, but when I didn't quite understand, he drew pictures on the exam table. His manner was easy and relaxed. He used to tease me about being so much older than I, which was only a couple of years actually. He was a special character and a good doctor.
Alexis Carsten
December 29, 2020
Robert has been my doctor for as long as I can remember and the only one I was ever excited to see. He was so funny and kind and always wished the best for me. It is truly heartbreaking to hear this news and I really can't believe it... I wish I wasn't in a hurry the last time I saw you.. I wish I would've chatted a bit longer.. I will miss you dearly and I know my family will too.. you took care of us all. We send our condolences and best wishes to his family such a hard time to lose a loved one especially a father... he was a very good man as you already know and he has changed a lot of lives and kept me on track...
Dan Cragin
December 29, 2020
How sad I am today to hear that Doc Whitson is gone. He was a great Doctor, a great person, and did so much for so many. I will truly miss him. His knowledge and dedication were inspirational. I am proud to have known him and will miss seeing him at the coffee shop. He had a way of making you feel like you were his most important patient and always gave you the straight story. My condolences to his staff and to his family, may God comfort you all in this difficult time.
Cindy Hernandez
December 29, 2020
To the family of Robert Whitson, I am sure you already know that he was a very special man. As everyone else has already stated he was more than just our doctor, he helped us through so many situations over our years with him. He treated us as family not as patients. He explained everything no matter what it was. He was our doctor, lawyer, travel guide, philosopher, confidant, and mostly our friend. He listened to us. He told us about his children and his travels. No doctor has ever come as close as he has to being a part of our own family. He always smiled and made us comfortable. He was human. He wasn’t any better than anyone else. Good lord we miss him already. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through these difficult times. Rest In Peace doc.
Barbara Miller
December 29, 2020
Sorry to hear this news. Dr Whitson has been my Doctor for over 10 years. He was very smart, old school type of doctor, and treated other family members. Very grateful to have known him and he helped me immensely in my journey of healing. Was with me every step of the way in making decisions regarding my health care. He Will be missed..... condolence to the family and wonderful staff.
Craig Bolling
December 29, 2020
I have known Dr. Whitson for over thirty years as he was our Physician and friend. Always good for a laugh, fun discussion of the outdoors, and willing to move you along to better health. He was a dear person and will miss his ongoing visits.
Prayers to his family and staff to get through this difficult time.
jason sitton
December 29, 2020
Doc was one of a kind,treated me well as a patient,will miss the political talk ,sympathys to his staff and family
Todd Grabner
December 29, 2020
Well my friend (and I do say friend instead of Doctor), it has been a true pleasure to have you as my doctor. You were the best and a true compassionate healing man. There will never be another like you. You will be missed in this community far more than you probably understand. Perhaps one day we will see each other on a mountain top somewhere as we always talked about. Rest in peace my friend!
Terry Schreiber
December 28, 2020
best doctor and friend. always listened. I will miss our talks.
Elena Hernandez
December 28, 2020
I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Whitson. I feel like I have lost a friend as well as my doctor. I will miss seeing him and his staff.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Deena Horton
December 28, 2020
So saddened by the passing of Dr. Whitson. He was one of my favorite people and I considered him not only my Dr. but my friend. He will be truly missed. My heart is heavy. My prayers to the family. Deena Horton
Terry Carlson
December 28, 2020
Totally agree with Debbie. He was one of a kind. I already miss him terribly. He was our family doctor for about 20 years. We were just reminiscing about how he always grabbed a pen and paper and made a drawing of whatever your issue was at the time so you could understand it better. So patient with kids and adults alike! My condolences to his family and office staff. They must be lost without him. May he rest in peace.
Kelly Thompson
December 28, 2020
It is truly heartbreaking to learn of this news. Dr. Whitson was the most intelligent, kind, caring, professional and humorous doctor I have ever had. His staff were just as kind and real. He always took his time and looked you in the eye to both talk and listen to you. He always had something to make you smile or laugh while you were at your appointment. No one will ever be able to replace him. He practiced common sense and practical medicine/solutions (in a day where, sadly, common sense is no longer that common). My condolences to his children, sweet staff and friends. Kelly Thompson
Debbie Nguyen
December 28, 2020
This truly saddens me Dr.Whitson Was more then my doctor he was a good friend, he always make me laugh at our appointments ! Their won’t be another doctor like him he was so humble and kind ! One of a kind ! I will miss him so much !! Debbie Nguyen
DebbieNguyen
December 28, 2020
Iam truly saddened I lost not only my doctor but a good friend.. I love the way he made me laugh at appointments.. It’s going to be hard to find anyone as humble and kind as Dr.Whitson was .. Iam going to Miss Him so Much !! Debbie Nguyen
Showing 1 - 63 of 63 results
731 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Suite #126, Kennewick, WA 99336
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more