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He was born in Providence, R.I., March 31, 1937, son of William and Janet Baxter Whitfield.
Bob graduated from East Providence High School and furthered his education at the University of Rhode Island. He moved to Manchester and worked at Sacred Heart Hospital where he met his future wife, Maureen McVeigh. They were married in 1963 and settled in Keene. Bob was employed at Hayward Farms, American Optical and then had a career at the Keene Post Office.
He leaves behind his loving wife of 61 years, Maureen; their three children: William Whitfield and his partner, Melissa Nelson, of Keene; Laura Silk and her husband, John, of Harrisville; and Susan Laffond and her husband, Mark, of Avon, IN. Bob was a proud grandfather to Ryan Whitfield of Hopedale, MA; Johnny Silk and his wife, Katie, of Concord; and Nathan and Lily Laffond of Avon, IN as well as a great-grandchild, Connor Whitfield of Hopedale, MA. Bob is also survived by his brothers, Douglas Whitfield and his wife Elena, of Manchester, and David Whitfield of Boscawen; along with many nieces and nephews.
Bob was a passionate sports fan and an avid collector of sports memorabilia and cards. He was a lifelong Patriots fan, a voracious reader, and enjoyed watching golf. Christmas was his favorite holiday, and he loved setting up his ceramic Christmas Village for friends and family to enjoy every year. Some of his happiest moments were spent on family trips to York Beach & Big Bear Camp in Maine. He also enjoyed many trips to Nova Scotia where his mother grew up. He could often be found at McDonald’s or Jeanne’s, enjoying time with his friends or engaging in a game of cribbage or cards. He loved meeting new people and made friends wherever he went.
Bob will be remembered for his deep commitment to his family. His life was marked by his kindness, generosity, and the deep bonds he formed with those around him. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Foley Funeral Home, 49 Court St., Keene.
The Whitfield family wishes to thank Alpine Healthcare Center for the loving care and support this past year. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Alpine Healthcare Center 298 Main St. Keene 03431.
The Foley Funeral Home of Keene has been entrusted with the arrangements. To express condolences to the family or to share a fond memory of William, please visit www.foleyfuneralhome.com.