Robert (Bob) Phillip Werle

Robert Phillip Werle, of Whittier, California passed away peacefully at home on February 4, 2015. After a nine year battle with cancer, he was put on hospice Christmas Eve, where he enjoyed the holiday surrounded by family, friends, laughs, and food. There is nothing in this world Bob enjoyed more than his family, and having the time to share with each and every one of them, was a true blessing.



Born November 10, 1940 in Oak Park, Illinois to Dorothy and Robert Werle, Bob grew up in the house his parents built literally with their own hands. As an only child he was showered with love by aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins, and he certainly enjoyed entertaining them. He learned photography from his Uncle Bud, who would take him out on police calls to practice his craft. Bobs camera collection owes a lot to his Uncle. Bob served four years in the 9th Marine Corps from 1959-1963, serving as a military photographer, and also earning his Rifle Marksmanship Badge. Bob loved his time and travel with the Marines, and was always proud to regale his family with stories from Hawaii.



But most of all, Bob loved playing. The enjoyment he had as a child being able to build planes, trains or automobiles translated into adult life. He was always a kid at heart. He could spend countless hours with his grandkids, flying planes, feeding geese, building trainsets, having tea parties, or pretending to enjoy make-overs. Anyone who met him would leave knowing they just met the nicest person they would ever know. His joy of life exuded in everything from bathtub boat races and flying kites, to bingo, model airplane clubs and playing Frogger with his wife. An avid reader, he never chose the classics, but thought the book written by the unknown writer would contain hidden treasures he always liked an underdog. Without a doubt he has the largest movie collection in the western world. Every friend and family member has received a DVD from Bob with a note, I thought you might get a kick out of this.



Bob is survived by his wife Margaret Werle, daughters and sons-in-law Denise DiCataldo (and Mark Endler), Monica Fitzgerald (and Frank Fitzgerald), and Toni Lidtke; grandchildren Emily Ramirez, Megan Fitzgerald, Alyssa Lidtke, Matthew Fitzgerald and Shaun Lidtke.



In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton, California. (714) 992-3033 or online at www.stjudemedicalcenter.org



A memorial service will be held to celebrate the life of Robert Werle on Feburary 28th at 11am at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 Philadelphia Street in Whittier, California. 562-698-0304.