Robert Alexander Whistler

Robert Alexander Whistler May 24, 1944 - May 8, 2021 It is with immense sadness that Alex's family announces his death, at the age of 76, from a rare, aggressive lymphoma cancer. He passed away peacefully in his home. His spirit will carry on, and he will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 50 years, Paula, his sister Jerry Whistler Snow, his daughters, Jerra Lynne and Leslie, and son, Rex. He was a proud "Pop" of his four grandchildren, Alexandra, Arianya, Gabrielle and Gauthier. Alex was born to Rex and Helen Whistler in Norman, Oklahoma. A proud member of the Sac and Fox tribe of Oklahoma, he was highly athletic and an adventurous outdoorsman. These two qualities greatly shaped his life. His education was marked by his success as a nationally ranked swimmer, and completion of training for the UnderWater Demolition Team (UDT) and Navy SEAL Team 1 in San Diego, California, from 1966-1970. While serving his country, as a SEAL in the Vietnam War, he received the Bronze Star. After serving his country, he returned to college and received his Bachelor of Science in Forestry from Stephen F. Austin State University, Texas. He and his wife, Paula, moved out West where he worked as a professional forester for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, surrounded by the forests he so loved. After 38 years, he retired from the B.I.A. in 2011. As an avid lover of nature, Alex was committed to passing on his knowledge. He was an ardent supporter of the National Parks, and could often be found camping and hiking, or planning his next camping trip. This love of nature and desire to further education was echoed in his professional life. He organized and led, for 34 years, Salmon Watch and Colulmbia Gorge field trips for students, grade school through high school. He also sponsored students through AISES (American Indian Science & Engineering Society), fostering greater scientific education and achievement in the Native American community. Above all, he was a man who knew how to find beauty and contentment in the simplest of situations, and who treasured the time he spent with his loved ones. He always encouraged others to "take the long way"; to not hurry, to savor the time that we have together.