Dr. Robert (Bob) Charles Whelan

7th July 1942 - 4th December 2025

Bob was born in Edgbaston, Birmingham in 1942 the eldest child of Edwin and Margaret Whelan and brother to Geoffrey. He attended George Dixon Grammar School where he was first introduced to amateur radio which was to become his lifelong hobby. He studied Physics at the University of Birmingham and later he completed a PhD at the University of Hull. He met Rosemary at the local Church Youth Club, and it was love at first sight. They married in March 1968. They later welcomed two daughters, Rachel and Emma.

Shortly afterwards the family moved to Cambridge and Bob took a job as a consultant at PA Technology specialising in technology-based solutions. His work took him around the globe including a memorable day trip to New York on Concord! He continued his work developing science and technology initiatives internationally for the rest of his career.

Not long after retirement, Bob's six grandchildren began to arrive. He was a wonderful and inspirational Grandpa loving time with his six grandchildren. Bob had an active retirement with roles on the boards of several science companies, as well as travelling with family and increased involvement with Amateur Radio Society. This included two tenures as President of the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) and President of the Fast Operators Club (FOC) and a member of IOTA and CDXC. He entered the Commonwealth Contest on an annual basis and wrote the history of the event in his book Reflections in a Rosebowl.

In his 83 years he touched the hearts of all who knew, admired and loved him. He will be greatly missed.

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Charity details

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity

Arthur Rank Hospice is dedicated to providing specialist palliative care and support to adult patients and their family, friends and carers

All care is provided free of charge, and is offered to people living throughout much of Cambridgeshire.

Registered Number 1133354

Cancer Research Uk

Cancer Research fund scientists, doctors and nurses to help beat cancer sooner. They also provide cancer information to the public.

Registered Number 1089464

Messages of condolence

To Rosemary, Rachael & Emma sending lots of love to you all at this very sad time. Bob was such a lovely man and he will be sadly missed. Rest it peace Bob you will never be forgotten.xx

Mr & Mrs Stephanie &Bill Rainbow

Sending Bob's family our deepest sympathies at this sad time. Bob was instrumental in guiding the Smith Institute in its early days and served expertly as a Non-Executive Board Director offering wise and clear direction for twenty five years.

Smith Institute

A great pall and I shall miss you

Mr Richard Wells

In memory of a dear friend who will be greatly missed.

Mr & Mrs Ray Daniels

Condolences to the family. We knew Bob through the Camb-Hams, and he will be greatly missed. Geoff and Linda Wilkin (G0DDX + G0TPX)

Mr Geoff Wilkin

Dear Rosemary, Rachel, Emma and family, Sending love and heartfelt condolences. Thinking of you all. Lisa, Andy, Jonny and Katie. XXXX

Dr Lisa Lione

Dear Rachel and Emma, we are so sorry for your loss. Sending love and strength during this difficult time. Love from Laura, Pete and Freddie xx

Ms Laura Lione

From Andrew, Sue, James, Sam, Thomas and Sarah. A very special brother in-law and Uncle, will be sorely missed. Xx

Mr & Mrs Andrew Lawton

So many happy memories of a wonderful, generous friend and neighbour in Comberton. Thank you Bob, for all the help and support you gave to us all.

Mr Michael G7VJR

For a wonderful Dad and Grandpa, You have been an inspiration to us all. We will miss you but your memory will stay alive. With love, Rachel Richard Alex Emily Ben and Jack ❤️xxxx

Mrs Rachel Lione

Vale Bob I'll miss you. 73 John G4BAO

Dr John Worsnop