Robert Lee Whitfield

Robert “Bob” Whitfield passed away on August 19th, 2025, at the age of 92. He was born in Connersville, Indiana on March 17th, 1933, to William Ezra and Maggie Mae (McGrew) Whitfield. Bob lived in Connersville until graduation from Connersville High School as a full-fledged Hoosier. He then went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army. After serving in South Korea during the Korean War, Bob returned to Indiana and began his career in banking and finance. He was eventually transferred to Akron, Ohio. Bob retired from the Firestone Bank which, after several conversions, became Chase Bank.

One of Bob’s passions was spending time on the golf course with his buddies. He has had the amazing opportunity to golf on many renowned courses around the world and he often planned golf trips to the Bahamas for several buddies where their competitive side led to tournaments and trophies. He golfed until his health became an obstacle and he eventually donated his clubs to First Tee.

Bob soon began enjoying volunteering for the Akron Golf Charities PGA Tournaments at Firestone Country Club. He was an avid sports enthusiast and supported The University of Akron basketball team, showing his passion with courtside season tickets and dozens of “Go Zips” shirts. Bob was a devoted member of The Bath Church and active in the community until health issues left him confined to home.  Bob will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William Ezra and Maggie Mae (McGrew) Whitfield, sisters, Jessie Smith, Annie Adams, Janice Hertle, brothers, William and infant brother Victor, and first wife, Elaine. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Shari, who was his soulmate and life partner. He leaves two sons, Michael and Bradley (Jackie), four grandchildren, Jessica, Justin, Cylee, and Christopher and several great grandchildren.

A private service has taken place. 

Bob and Shari traveled the world and enjoyed the wonderful opportunities that life offered them. Bob lived a good life, and this is the first time Bob ever left a party early.

Memorials may be made to the The Bath Church, 3890 W. Bath Rd. Akron, OH 44333 or the Akron-Canton Food Bank, 350 Opportunity Parkway, Akron, OH 44307 or a charity of your choice.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333