There is an empty chair on Main Street in Kemmerer as H.B. (Bob) Whitmore, age 83, died on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at home surrounded by his family. Bob was born October 3, 1934, in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, to Herman Lee and LaRue (Boyce Newman) and was the youngest of the five children.
Bob married his sweetheart Marvine Shappart on May 2, 1955, in McCammon, Idaho. Bob transferred with FMC from Pocatello, Idaho, to Kemmerer where he planted his roots. He later became the local distributer for Coca Cola in Lincoln, Sublette and Uinta counties. Bob then purchased the Wishee Washee Car Wash, where he also set up his rock business. He had a great collection of a variety of rocks and fossils, but his most precious and prized gem was his wife, whom he referred to as “his bride” for 62 years. Bob left no stones unturned, and truly lived life on his terms and to the fullest. He was best known for his colorful personality and quick wit. Bob’s favorite time of the year was opening day of the elk hunt, where you would find him at his favorite spot on Sheep Mountain. His great love of the outdoors took him from the mountains to the deserts and lakes hunting elk, mushrooms, Indian artifacts, rocks and the big fish that got away. Bob had a close circle of friends and customers that he truly looked forward to visiting with at the rock shop. Bob lovingly called his and Ma’s children their “brats”.
Bob is survived by his wife Marvine Whitmore of Kemmerer, children Ricky Whitmore of Kemmerer, Elaine Nelson (Doug) of Cheyenne, Kevin Whitmore (Tammy) of Lander and Corey Roberts (Ken) of Kemmerer. He is survived by grandchildren Shawn Whitmore, Michael Whitmore, Brady Murray, Stephen Nelson, Paige Wood, Nic Nelson, Lindee Griffin, Tom Nelson, Justin Whitmore, Rebecca Jevne, Sandie Koehler and Remington Roberts. He is also survived by 28 greatgrandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Evalyn, Jennie, Helen and Ida and beloved granddaughter Jessica (Whitmore) Linnan.
At Bob’s request there will be no services. In lieu of gifts, contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Ball Family Chapel in Kemmerer. Online condolences may be left at ballfamilychapel.com.
Next time you’re enjoying a cup of coffee, think of Bob. Cheers to the old Salty Dog!
