Joe H Whitney

Retired electronics engineer, devoted volunteer for his church and antique car enthusiast, passed away peacefully with his loving wife at his side, Saturday, March 24, 2012, in Tucson. Born in 1933, and raised at his family home in Glendale, Arizona. Joe was an Engineering Graduate of Arizona State College at Tempe in 1955. He was also a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. He served as a Senior Electronics Engineer at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico and at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. In 1991, the year of his retirement, he received the Superior Civilian Service Award for his distinguished work from the Department of the Army.

Joe grew up in his father’s Western Auto Store in Glendale, and from the time he was a teenager, Joe had a passion for the history, restoration and preservation of antique automobiles. In his 60 plus years in the hobby, he collected, restored and drove many early vehicles. He participated in and planned numerous historic automobile tours.

His company, generous time, mechanical expertise and good advice were greatly enjoyed and appreciated by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Joe was always a faithful and helpful friend who was known and admired for his playful, uncanny and witty sense of humor, his strength, courage and determination.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Gladys Whitney. He is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 35 years, Leanne; son Joseph (Kim), granddaughter Kayla; son Greg, grandson Erin; and daughter Dana. Also left to cherish many fond and humorous memories are his extended family and wide community of close friends and professional acquaintances.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the kind staff of Peppi’s House for their tender care and compassion.

A celebration of his life will be held at Desert Skies United Methodist Church, 3255 N. Houghton Road, March 31, 2012 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the March of Dimes.

Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY AND CEMETERY.