Robert Kenneth Whitlatch

Robert Kenneth Whitlatch, 75 years young, known to all as “Ken” was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and dear friend - passed away on Saturday November 12, 2022 with his wife Dawna and sons Robert and Kevin at his side. This loss was completely unexpected, leaving family and friends shocked and deeply saddened. He will be missed in so many ways.

Ken was born on August 16, 1947, to Ima and Caryl Whitlatch in Chariton, Iowa. The youngest of 5 children, he grew up on a 140-acre farm. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1969 with a master’s degree in Mathematics and a minor in Chemistry. Throughout his scholastic journey he participated and won several track and field medals for distance running.

Ken was drafted into the armed forces in April 1970 and was honorably discharged in December 1971 after serving as a Mathematics Statistic Assistant. While in basic training he was awarded the sharpshooter medal and the National Defense Service Medal. A proud Vietnam veteran, he frequently wore the stars and stripes on his hats and t-shirts.

Ken went on to spend his career in finance and excelled in the exacting nature this work required. He was an extremely dedicated and hard worker. He offered a level of optimism that was honest, heartfelt, and spilled over into all that he did. He never shied away from challenges and was always a source of positivity. Throughout his career, he formed many successful relationships and left a lasting impact on everyone he worked with.

Ken met his wife Dawna while working together at Combustion Power Company in Menlo Park CA. They married in May 1983, and soon after welcomed their first child, Christina. In short order, the family grew to five with the births of Robert Jr. and Kevin. They called the Chester County area of PA home for close to 40 years. Ken was a kind, supportive, and devoted father. Anyone who knew Ken knew that he was the most loving father a family could ask for and the friend you could always count on.

Ken had a love for technology and gadgets. He could often be spotted wearing one of his many earbuds or putting an impossible puzzle together. When he wasn’t at work, Ken enjoyed being outdoors - log splitting, picking berries, frisbee throwing, and taking the family dog Velvet for a walk in the nature preserve behind his house. Most Sunday mornings were spent as an usher or lector at St. Peter's Pikeland UCC, where he also volunteered as the church’s treasurer. He loved traveling to places like Hawaii and our National Parks, meticulously planning hiking trips to Zion, Bryce, and Yellowstone. Many sunny afternoons he would take his Harley Davidson out for a ride to enjoy the beautiful weather, stopping only to snap a photo or two of the sunset. Ken’s favorite pastime was spending time with his family, and his love for them was apparent to all who knew him.

Ken was a competitive tennis player. In 2001 his 55 and older men’s USTA team won the regional championship and went on to compete in the USTA National championship in San Diego, CA.  He played tennis multiple times a week with a few different groups to stay active and healthy. His consistent overhead smash was his most powerful stroke.

Ken's antics were legendary and those who knew him have their own stories to tell. He never lost his mischievous spirit and love for life. His sense of humor was second to none and he was as compassionate as he was funny. His passion and integrity to those he loved was unwavering. Even in challenging circumstances, Ken was never angry, sad, or depressed – he could find the silver lining to keep pushing forward in any situation. His infectious smile and laugh will live on forever. He truly was extraordinary.

Ken is survived by his wife, Dawna; their children Christina, Robert, and Kevin; three grandchildren, Jayden Noss, Zachary Whitlatch, and Robert Whitlatch III; his brother, Loran Whitlatch, many nieces and nephews and countless friends and co-workers who lives have been touched knowing Ken. Ken was a rare special treasure.

A Celebration of Life & Memorial Service will be held in St. Peter's Pikeland United Church of Christ, 1193 Clover Mill Road, Chester Springs, PA on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. His friends and family are invited to share happy memories and stories to celebrate Ken’s life in the way he would want to be remembered - as a loving and caring man who loved life.