Robert James Whitfield, 87, of Sweet Home, passed away Saturday. He was born in Philomath to George and Maysel (Blanchard) Whitfield.

Bob grew up in a logging family. In his early childhood, they followed the work in the logging industry in Oregon. The family moved to Sweet Home in 1937, where he has since resided.

Bob had a strong belief in God and followed that throughout his life. He attended the Assembly of God Church since he was a young child.

He entered the Navy in May, his senior year of high school and served from 1945-1946. After the Navy, he met Doris Stutzman and they married on March 13, 1948.

Bob’s aim in life was to own a logging truck. He bought his first truck in 1948 and owned several trucks throughout his career. He remained active in the industry for many years. He was involved in the Oregon Log Truckers‘ Association for several years and served as president for a year. He and Doris also owned and operated an insurance agency for 25 years. Even after he became an insurance agent he still loved trucking, often jumping in the truck and grabbing a load when the opportunity arose.

A Sweet Home city councilor for 10 years, Bob also served as Sweet Home mayor for 2 years. He always believed Sweet Home was a great place to live and wanted to do his part to make it better.

He loved fishing and hunting, and camping, especially as a young man. As he got older he enjoyed RVing, going to Arizona several winters. He also loved going to his grandkids sporting events and always looked forward to family gatherings. He was known by all for his story telling and his silly jokes he loved to tell.

He leaves behind his wife of 66 years, Doris; son Jim, daughter Nancy and son Randy and his children Nathan, Christian, Annie and Garrison; brother Bill; sister Evelyn and brother-in-law Ralph Miller of Alaska, and 4 nieces.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents and son David who passed away in 2001.

A viewing will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 30,at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel. A memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m., May 1, at Lebanon Assembly of God on 7th and Oak Streets. Memorial contributions can be made in Robert’s name to the Sweet Home Alumni Foundation.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.