Kernel Panic

If your Mac restarts and a message appears - Apple Support explains:

• Disconnect all devices except for an Apple keyboard and mouse. ...
• If this resolves the issue, reconnect one device at a time, restarting your Mac after reconnecting each one, until you determine which device is causing the problem.

It appears you identified the device causing the problem.

Get rid of all Western Digital "drive utility" or "management" software. Those things are not required and can only cause trouble.

Correct. The WD software could be causing the KPs.

WD drives are usually ok, although their enclosures often are not. I realize the distinction may not be obvious, or even worthwhile. All I can tell you is that I am not aware of any WD drives causing kernel panic events.