1/2015 Note: We need help linking Robert to his father, Peter S. or L. Whitaker, I'd also like to see a picture of him.... If anyone can help, Please contact me.
[email protected].... Thanks for any help you can provide.

Article in "Neodesha Register", Friday, Apr 16, 1897

DEATH OF ELDERLY MAN
The last days of last week brought death to a well known household in this vicinity. On Thursday occurred the death of Robert Whitaker, one of Newark Township's justices and one of the very first settlers and most widely known citizens of that township. Mr. Whitaker has been ailing ever since last fall and for a week or more before his death it became evident to all that his days were numbered. His old friend and neighbor, Elder Coats conducted religious services at the family residence at 10 o'clock the Saturday after his death, speaking from 2 Timothy, 6, 7 and 8. The remains were interred in Star Cemetery near the residence. The deceased was one of the founders of the cemetery and witnessed the first burial within its borders.
Robert "Squire" Whitaker was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1821 and was almost 76 years of age at the time of his death. He married Rebecca Wimer and by her became father of ten children-five boys and five girls. When his youngest child, Val., was one year old he came with his entire family to Kansas, landing in Newark Township on April, 9, 1869. He located the claim on which he has since lived and died. At the organization of the township he was chosen justice of the peace and has held the officer ever since, except two or three terms. A staunch and unvarying old-line democrat, such was his sterling worth and his integrity of character that very frequently he was nominated on the opposition ticket.
In his early manhood he professed conversion and joined the M.E. Church and during all his life remained true to his religious profession dying in hope and confidence. He leaves four sons and four daughters living-all married and thirty-one grand children and eight great grandchildren. To the credit of himself and his mourning widow, be it said, that among his numerous progeny there isn't a single bad character; all are men and women, boys and girls of unimpeachable character. Honor to Robert Whitaker, the humble, trustworthy citizen who did his duty according to his light, to his God, his country, his family and his fellow man!

NEODESHA REGISTER
Friday 16, 1897
Death: April 8, 1897
Interment: April 10, 1897