Dr. Willard Kettlewell

Dr. Robert Willard Kettlewell of Denver, CO passed peacefully on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the age of 72, surrounded by his wife, Linda and daughters Lara Seitz and Kara Kyle. Born January 30, 1951, in Independence, MO to Elvin and Verda Kettlewell. He was the second of four children in the family but the first born in the United States after the family immigrated from Canada. Bob, Dr. Bob, or Dr. Papa as he was affectionately called by many, was a unique and caring individual who touched the lives of all who knew him.

In 1969 Robert graduated from Fort Osage High School, he went on to receive his undergraduate degree from Graceland College in 1973, and his Doctorate in Dental Sciences from The School of Dentistry at the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1977. It was during his time at Graceland College that he met his first wife and was gifted with three amazing children. In 1979 Robert moved to Denver, CO where he began his lifelong career as a Dentist. Through the innocent efforts of his children and their two neighborhood friends, he met and married the love of his life, Linda Chambers. In February 1982, this blended family was woven together and strengthened by their commitment and love for each other. After a few years, Robert and Linda relocated the family to California where he continued practicing Dentistry until he retired in 2013.

Bob or Rob the Adventurer as he was known creatively, had a passion for so many interests and hobbies. He loved hiking fourteeners, skiing, photography, baking, pottery, fishing, watching Dr. Who, Star Trek, or anything sci-fi, and spending time sharing stories of his many adventures. Robert was fiercely proud of all five of his children and bestowed upon each of them his love of knowledge and education. After retiring from Dentistry, Bob and Linda moved back to Denver and his beloved Colorado mountains, hoping to spend more time exploring and engaging in his favorite activities, including his role as Dr. Papa. Unfortunately, his health didn't cooperate, and he was very limited in what his body could tolerate. Even with the limitations and complications of his health, he never complained or gave in to the bitterness of chronic illness. He stayed true to himself through it all and never lost his sense of humor, bringing joy and laughter to those around him. He was the true jokester to the end.

When Bob married Linda, he vowed to love her until the day he died and for 42 years that love never wavered. It was the cornerstone the family was built on and the example their children modeled after. It was only fitting that the last time he opened his eyes was when she hugged him, and he could see her one more time.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Elvin and Verda Kettlewell, his brother Larry Kettlewell, and sister-in-law Mary Kettlewell (Evan). He is survived by his wife Linda, his five children Tau Walker (Cara), Matthew Kettlewell (Jennifer), Courtney Sampson (Trent), Lara Seitz (Nathan), and Kara Kyle (John), twelve grandchildren, two precious great-grandchildren, his brother Evan Kettlewell, his sister Linda Evans (Dennis), and some awesome nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at 11:30am on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Newcomers, East Metro Chapel, 190 Potomac Street, Aurora, CO 80011.

Dr. Kettlewell's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click Here to view the service.