Thomas R. Whittaker
Posted By DeJohn Funeral Homes On September 13, 2021 @ 3:56 pm In Obituaries,Staff,Willoughby Hills | 21 Comments
THOMAS R. WHITTAKER age 73, died unexpectedly of a heart attack on September 11, 2021; beloved husband for 50 years of Cynthia (nee Ebersole); loving father of Matthew (wife June) and Amy Bolton (husband Chip); devoted grandfather of Michael, Kate, Bobby, Tommy (deceased), Lily, twins Elizabeth and Nick, and Charlie; cherished son of the late Robert and Marie Whittaker (nee Joss); dearest brother of Marilyn Wade (husband Shawn) and the late Jack Whittaker; dearest cousin and best friend of Terry Wolford (wife Mary).
Tom was born in Cleveland Ohio and grew up in Willoughby Hills. He spent the last 45 years in Kirtland, where he raised his family with his wife Cindy. He attended both New Promise and Willoughby Hills Friends Churches. Tom joined the IBEW Local #38 immediately after graduating from Willoughby South High School in 1966. He married Cindy in 1970 and joined the Army Reserves.
He spent his career as an electrician. He became the Union’s apprenticeship instructor, financial secretary, and ultimately served as president from 1997-2004. He was a lifelong advocate for organized labor, workers’ rights, and the Lake County Democratic Party. After retiring, he stayed busy and enjoyed yardwork and spending time in his garden and pool. He was a fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes and enjoyed both watching and attending games.
Tom’s greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and attending as many of their sporting events and activities as possible. He also enjoyed outings with his retired wireman friends and their families. He loved having people over and entertaining. Every family holiday was hosted at their home.
Tom was the perfect dad. He was always helping his kids and could fix anything, including problems. He will be dearly missed by all.
Contributions may be made in memory of Tom to Holden Arboretum. Celebration of Life Service Friday, September 17, 2021 at 10 AM at Willoughby Hills Friends Church, 2846 SOM Center Rd, Willoughby Hills. Burial following at Whitehaven Memorial Park. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Tom at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) THURSDAY 4-8 PM.
Charity Name: HOLDEN ARBORETUM
Charity EIN: 340750346
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Condolences for the family of “Thomas R. Whittaker”
Dear Cindy and family. Sending my condolences to all. Tom was a dear friend and will be missed by all that knew him.. Rest in Peace, my friend.
So sorry for your loss, I knew Tom for a long time.
Clyde and I want you and your family to know we are praying for you all. We are sorry for this loss of such a wonderful spouse, father, and grandfather.
Cindy and family, we are so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. Tom was the definition of a “good neighbor”, always there to lend a hand or ear. He will be deeply missed by the Meyers family.
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Tom, our deepest condolence to the family. Tom was an amazing person in my time in the IBEW Loc 38. It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to know him.
Our deepest sympathy to the family.
From The Zarlinga family.
My condolences to the Whittaker family.
Tom was my teacher and mentor he is going to be missed. He also was a great union man and one of the good Joe’s .
James Rochford jr IBEW local 38
Amy, I am so sorry for your loss, sending prayers to you and your family..
Sorry for you’re unexpected loss of such a great man.
i am so sad to learn of the loss of tom. he was a terrific guy. peace and blessings to toms family.
Very sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family. I’ve known Tom since entering IBEWLocal 38, as my apprenticeship teacher.
I am deeply saddened by the untimely loss of our union brother and officer. Thanks for your selfless service to Local 38.
Tom was a great brother Wireman and better person. I hope the family finds peace knowing how great of a man he was and how many lives he’s touched.
Rest In Peace Tom
Really going to miss you, Tom Whittaker, you gave all to the beautiful family you have with wisdom and strength and friendship. May they remain with you in your guiding love.
Amy, I am so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers to you and your family..
Tom was always a professional who put great effort into making those around him feel welcomed and comfortable. He was such a caring and always uplifting person and will be missed by all of us who knew and spent time with him. From this earth to the Lords hands I will miss you Brother
Sorry for your loss, he will be remembered as a leader and a friend. God bless stay safe
Im so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing . In all of my fifty plus years as a member of local 38 l never met a finer person. Please accept my deepest condolences to your family.
I will always keep this family in my prayers that God will continue to bless this family with a peace that surpasses all understanding. Love Tammy T Warren
To the family of Tom
Wow, I am shocked and saddened to hear about your loved one that passed.
Tom was an extraordinary person. He was one of my instructors thorough IBEW Local 38. Great guy, honorable man, good friend.
I am truly sorry
God Bless
I am so sorry for your sudden loss …Tom was an amazing individual…a loving father and good friend to my father.
Prayers to all your family.
Be strong for each other in this difficult time.
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I am so sad to hear of Tom’s sudden death. May the LORD BE WITH HIS FAMILY at this difficult time.