April 26, 1944 - June 23, 2021
In Loving Memory of Robert George Whitman "Bob" ~
t is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and "dear Bob" (AKA Leonard Kwiatkowski) to a hard battle with cancer. Bob passed away in the loving presence of his family. He stayed strong and hopeful and was always grateful.
Bob was born in Port Alberni to Rose Elizabeth Kwiatkowski and John Daniluk.
From four months of age he was raised by his parents, George and Myrtle Whitman in Abbotsford, BC. Moving back to Port Alberni in 1972 and making his life there, he gained successful employment with MacMillan Bloedel at Alberni Pulp and Paper. A.K.A. Lenny Bob worked as a CAT / Bull Dozer Operator from 1973 - 2006; he was always proud and thankful for his secure position.
Bob fathered his first two children, Debbie and Bobby, in 1972 and 1975, respectfully. In 1985 he married the love of his life, Anita, and had three more children; Dean (1989), Christina (1990), and Sean (1992).
Bob loved his family, home and fur babies most. Being proud, he maintained a positive outlook in life. He believed that moving forward and making the best of things is important, so "smile and be happy". Bob also cared deeply about human suffering and encouraged charity. He often gave to children hospitals and the less fortunate.
Bob had interest in cars, prospecting, gold panning, and camping with his family. Family movie time in the home theatre was always greatly cherished. Gatherings were dear to him. His enjoyment of fast cars become a dream come true starting with his 1968 Z28 Camaro and later Corvettes, his favourite being his custom 2020 C8 Stingray mid-engine.
Bob, you gave us a wonderful life, much love, and many memories, and for that we are eternally grateful. We thank God for bringing you to our lives and for being who you are. So we pray your last ride is in God's Everlasting Heaven. Your family thanks you for all you have done for us and your good deeds to many. You have a kind soul with a big heart.
Dad leaves behind our mom, Anita Haase (Whitman), and their children, Dean Whitman, Christina Whitman, and Sean Whitman. Bob's eldest children, Debra Hamilton (grandchildren Kiesha, Mikayla, Jackson and Bently) and Robert (Bobby) Hamilton. Brother-in-law Gerald Haase (Karen), Hartmut Haase (Gudrun), Winfried Haase and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Predeceased by his birth mother and father Rose Kwiatkowski, John Daniluk, given parents George and Myrtle Whitman, foster brother Cliff Ulmer, mother-in-law Anna Haase, and father-in-law Ewald Haase.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life is to be announced. Special and heartwarming thank you to all caregivers, staff and volunteers of Ty Watson
House and Hospice Society, Dr. Fraser and Dr. Johnson for the valuable care Bob was given. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory to the Hospice Society, Ty Watson House, or SPCA would be greatly appreciated.
Bob, you are missed, never forgotten, and always loved. Until we meet again, we pray and know "God's in his Heaven - All's right with the world".