WHITMIRE, Ricky D. Sr. April 10, 2021 of Grand Island, NY. Beloved husband of the late Peggy (nee Minton). Dearest father of Scott (Kelly), Jennifer (Robert) Galvano, Daniel (Jennifer) and Ricky Jr. (Keri). Cherished grandfather of Erin (Nathan Keefe)Deering, Brendon (Amberlynn Steuer) Deering, Madison Deering, Catelynn, Emily, Ava, Halle Jo, Landon and Caleb Whitmire. Brother of Wendy Whitmire and the late Sharon Palmer and Ronald Whitmire and Brother in law of Kathleen (Rick) Watson, Barbara Minton, Paul (Mary) Minton and Peter (Michelle) Minton. Survived by several nephews and nieces, along with many “adopted” family who knew him as Dad Whitmire or Papa. Family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4-8 PM at DENGLER ROBERTS PERNA FUNERAL HOME 3070 Delaware Ave. Kenmore, NY. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Bible Fellowship Center 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Thursday at 11AM. Please assemble at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY or the Bible Fellowship Center. Ricky was in the first graduating class of Grand Island High School in 1966. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy serving during the Vietnam War. He also assisted during the recovery of the Apollo 11 Astronauts. He was also one of the first cowboys at Fantasy Island. He had danced for Buffalo Bandstand with Dick Clark. He loved camping and enjoyed playing his guitar while there as music was a huge part of his life. He loved spending time with friends and family especially his grandchildren. After his Military service, He worked for National Grinding Wheel and re-educated himself working for Belknap Heating and Cooling until his retirement. If one word was used to sum up his life, it would be servant. He had a servant’s heart, always willing to help those in need. His faith in his Lord and Savior was strong. No matter what the situation was, Ricky always trusted in God. It was this trust and faith in God that would shine through daily as he battled the horrible disease, Alzheimer's. There was never a doubt in his mind, even when Alzheimer's took his abilities, he knew he was going home to be with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He leaves behind a legacy of faith and love.
Online condolences may be shared at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com
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