Robert D. Whiteford

WHITEFORD – Robert D., 91, Portage, died April 24, 2025, at home surrounded by loving family. Born August 12, 1933, in Spangler, son of William and Angeline (Benden) Whiteford. Preceded in death by parents; beloved wife, Lois (Long) Whiteford, who died September 5, 2021; sisters, Ruth Whiteford, Elva Bardelang, Margaret Bowman, and Gladys Hulton-Shearer; and brothers, Edward, Joseph, Walter, and William Whiteford. 

Survived by son, Gary, married to Shana (Roberts); daughters, Janice, wife of Tom Rowett; Shirley, wife of Greg Borow; Donna, wife of David Nolan; and Paula, wife of David George; grandchildren, Sarah (Mark) Sekerak, Nicholas Whiteford, and Trisha (Michael) Whiteford – Bek; Corin (Lucas) Humbracht and Celeste Chubski; Lindsay (Luke) Slezak, Leah (Ryan) Wiggins, and Kevin Borow; Josh (Kristie) Nolan and Layne Nolan; and Christopher George and Carly (Matthew) Cooper; and sixteen great grandchildren. 

Bob graduated from Patton High School in 1952, and not long after, answered the call to serve his country. As a Corporal in the United States Army, he served honorably during the Korean War. He was a remarkably talented carpenter and woodworker. He was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Germany; and was involved in his community, as a lifetime member of the Patton Volunteer Fire Company and member of the Loretto American Legion Post 748 and the Ebensburg VFW Post 4963. Bob was the kind of man you just don’t meet often anymore — humble, dependable, and steady. He didn’t need recognition or praise; he found purpose in serving others, in building things that lasted, and in simply being there for those he loved. 

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork. 

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Father Joseph C. Nale, celebrant. 

Committal, St. Marys Cemetery. 

Military rites by St. Michael American Legion Post 551. 

The family wishes to thank Courtney and Michelle and all the staff of AseraCare Hospice for their kindness and support. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Patton Fire Company, 410 Magee Ave, Patton, PA 16668.