Robert Whetstone Obituary

Robert Eugene "Bob" Whetstone

Mar 20, 1934 - Oct 11, 2023

Fort Myers, FL

Robert Eugene "Bob" Whetstone, 89, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023, at his home in Fort Myers, Florida.

Robert was born March 20, 1934, in Sandusky, to William H. and Ina M. (Ziemke) Whetstone. He married his high school sweetheart, Marie W. McGuinness. Bob and Marie shared 63 loving years together before she passed away in 2019.

Robert attended Sandusky High School where he played basketball and football. He was the starting right end in 1949 as a sophomore. In 1950, he moved to Barberton where he played basketball, track, baseball, and football. In 1951, he was first-team all-Ohio. He graduated from Barberton High School in 1952 and was inducted into the BHS Football Hall-of-Fame. Robert was recruited by Woody Hayes to play football at The Ohio State University, where he won varsity letters in 1953 and 1955. In 1955, Bob received the "Gold Pants" award for OSU's 17-0 win. Robert graduated from OSU in 1956. In 1996, after 29 years, Bob retired from Ford Motor Company in Sandusky. He was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, life-time member of the Elks Club and supporter of Sandusky Maritime Museum. Bob loved all sports, especially OSU football! Additionally, he was an avid fisherman and boater.

Robert is survived by his son, Robert "Rocky" (Gail Perzia) of Boca Raton, Florida; daughters, Debra (Bill) Todd of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Susan Treder of Fort Myers, Florida; grandson, Isaac (Mariah) Todd of Fort Collins, Colorado; brother-in-law, Charlie (Helen) McGuinness; sisters-in law, Patty and Elvy McGuinness; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Tim; daughter, Sandy; sisters, Peggy Groom Vassallo and Miriam Elias; nephews, Peter Groom and Bill Groom; and great-nephew, Cameron Baber.

Bob's celebration of life will be in the spring in Sandusky. Burial for both Robert and Marie will take place at that time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert's memory may be made to OSU Champions Fund #314925, [email protected], 614-292-3451. OSU Champions Fund affords funding for all scholar athletes in all sports. Payment may be sent to 2400 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio, 43210.