Robert Luvern Whiteley

MItchell - Robert Luvern Whiteley, 92, died on Sunday, January 4, 2026 in his home in Mitchell, South Dakota.  Visitation for family and close friends will be Friday, January 9, 2026 from 1:30-2:30 at the First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall in Avon. Burial is in the Tyndall Cemetery. Peters Funeral Chapel in Avon is in charge of arrangements.

Robert Luvern Whiteley was born February 10, 1933  to Arthur Whiteley and Eleanor (Deurmier) Whiteley at home in rural Avon, South Dakota. Robert attended Avon High School and then joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War.

Robert was united in marriage to Rita on June 23, 1956.  Robert went on to join the Oakland Police Department in Oakland, California where he served as a patrolman and then was promoted to sergeant.  He served the Oakland Police Department for 20 years and retired.  Robert and Rita then opened a leather shop in San Leandro, California where they manufactured leather goods for police departments.

Robert enjoyed his peaceful property in Mitchell on the James River, taking care of wildlife that visited, and riding his ATV.

Thankful for sharing his life are his wife of 70 years, Rita, and their three children: (the late) Greg Whiteley, Larry Whiteley, and Joanne (Whiteley) Hamlyn. Robert had 6 grandchildren: Devon Hamlyn, Alexa (Hamlyn) Stover, Trevor Hamlyn, Andrew Whiteley, Matthew Whiteley, and Mark Whiteley; and 1 great grandchild, Charlotte Stover.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Greg, and sister Delores.