Robert Wayne McWhirter

Robert Wayne McWhirter, aged 89, of Sacramento, California, passed away peacefully at his home on August 4, 2026. A retired Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force where he served for more than 41 years, he was dedicated to the U.S. Military and his country. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, two children, and one grandchild. A memorial will be held at Lambert Funeral Home August 28, 2026.

Robert was born on September 3, 1936 in Twin Falls, Idaho to William and Helen McWhirter. Later they moved to Chicago, Illinois; Rio Tinto, Nevada; and Anderson Dam, Idaho. After finishing school in Mountain Home, Idaho, he immediately joined the U.S. Air Force. He was one of 7 brothers and sisters.

In the U.S. Air Force, Robert attended many trade schools to develop the skills required for his specialties. In the mid-1970’s, he used the GI Bill to attend Weber State College, working toward a degree in Systems Engineering.

After joining the U.S. Air Force, Robert served various stints in active duty, in the U.S.A.F. Reserves, and in the Air National Guard. He received the Korean Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal, as well as many other medals for long-term dedication and honorable service. He achieved the high rank of Chief Master Sergeant in 1984, and retired from the U.S. Air Force serving 41 years and 7 months.

He also worked as a civilian in various positions for the U.S. Government at McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento, California; at Hill Air Force Base in Roy, Utah; and at the Army Depot in Sacramento, California.

Robert was a member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, where he attained the degree of "Master of the Royal Secret"—a 32nd degree Mason. He was also a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Robert was a skilled handyman, relying on himself to fix all the issues around the home. He followed the National Football League, and was a San Francisco Forty Niners fan.

Robert leaves behind his devoted wife, Lynne, whom he married in 1965. Together, they raised two children: Brian (married to Elise), and Sean. Robert was a devoted grandfather to one grandchild (Catherine). He is also survived by his brother Douglas, in Idaho; his brother Andrew, in California; his sister Esther, in Alabama.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, brothers David and Raymond, and his sister Helen.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Lambert Funeral Home, 400 Douglas Blvd, Roseville, CA 95678. Visitation will take place starting at 8:00 AM. Flowers should be sent to this location.

Join us for a celebration of life luncheon at Sienna Restaurant, located at 1480 Eureka Road, Roseville, California, beginning at 12:00 noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Fisher House Foundation, an international nonprofit to provide complimentary quality of life services for active military members, veterans, and their families.

Robert will be deeply missed by his family and friends.