Robert Todd Whitacre

Robert Todd Whitacre,
of Elida, Ohio, died Friday evening, Aug. 4, 2017, at St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima after a brief illness. He was 55.
Rob was born Sept. 13, 1961, in Columbus, Ohio, to Raymond E. and Barbara J. (Brandt) Whitacre. He graduated from Hoover High School in North Canton in 1979. He graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering in 1983 and with a Master of Science in electrical engineering in 1985. He spent his career as an electrical engineer, specializing in radio frequency design, and was most recently employed at Matrix Research in Dayton, Ohio. He was awarded a patent while employed by Bell Laboratories.
He is survived by his wife, Dee Kerns-Whitacre, of Elida; daughter at home Lauren Kerns of Elida; adult children Andrew Whitacre, of Columbus, Allison Whitacre, of Columbus, and Michelle Whitacre, of Kent, Joshua (Meagan) Kerns of Elida, Justin (Shelley) Kerns of Elida, Zachary Kerns (Amber)of Elida, Cody (Allanah) Kerns of Elida; brothers, Stuart (Kristine) of Uniontown, and John (Annette), of Canton; precious grandchildren Isabelle Gabriel and Olivia; several nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts and cousins. Rob was preceded in death by his parents, several uncles and aunts, and a cousin.
Rob attended Lima Community Church and played bass in the worship band. He was an avid amateur radio operator and had a lifelong fascination with electronics. He coached youth soccer for several years and was a fan of the Cleveland Browns, the Cleveland Indians, and Ohio State University football. Rob loved teaching and reading. He loved the times he spent with his family. Rob demonstrated Christ's love in all he did and greatly desired for his children to know Jesus as their personal Savior. He loved and adored his beloved dog Cooper.
The family will receive friends from 12pm to 2pm and from 4pm to 6pm on Tuesday, Aug. 8 at Lima Community Church of the Nazarene. The funeral service will be led by Jonathan Burkey and Richard Jueckstock immediately following the viewing, at 6pm. A private family burial will be held the following morning. Condolences may be offered at www.chamberlinhuckeriede.com In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dee and Lauren Kerns.