Robert Whitesell

Robert J. Whitesell, 93, of Cedar Park, Texas and formerly of Oxford, IN. died Sunday May 9, 2010 in Cedar Park. Robert was born April 3, 1917 in Downs, McLean County, Illinois the son of the late Earl and Myrtle Green Whitesell. He moved with his family to Pine Township in 1920, and graduated from Oxford High School in 1935, later attending Wolverine School of Trades in 1936 and 1937. Mr. Whitesell resided over 90 years in the Oxford area, many of those years working for several local automobile dealers as an auto body repairman. He also helped his father on the farm, the old Baldwin Fruit Farm, located on Indiana State Highway 55, which is on the Indiana Historical Register. He married Doris C. Buttle in Alexandria, IN. August 23, 1941, and she preceded him in death July 1, 1995. Mr. Whitesell was a longtime member of the Oxford United Methodist Church and past Vice president of the Heritage House. He was a self taught violin guitar and harmonica player, and played for many local Oxford dances and functions as well as giving lessons to many Oxford and Benton County residents well into his 80's. One of his many other talents was writing, providing articles for the local paper under his pen name "Hill William", putting his home spun wisdom to his articles. He enjoyed donating his time at the local nursing homes and for different community organizations, providing comfort and goodwill to his cherished neighbors and friends. Surviving are 3 children, Susan Long (husband Bill) of Georgetown, Texas; Anna Campbell (husband Frank) of Magnolia, Texas; and Timothy Whitesell (wife Jean) of Alton, Illinois. Also surviving are 7 grandchildren, Debbie Little (husband Greg); Robert Campbell (wife Londa); Gary Campbell (wife Laurie); Thomas Christensen (wife Tina); Allen Whitesell (wife Noni) Emily Lamere (husband Darren) and Clayton Long; along with 11 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Irene Smith. Friends may call at the HAHN-GROEBER FUNERAL HOME, Oxford from 5 until 8 PM Friday. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the funeral service at the Oxford United Methodist Church 11:00 A.M. Saturday, Rev. Linda Sproull officiating. Interment in Oxford West Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be left at www.hahngroeberfuneralhome.com