Ralph Whitaker

Whitaker, Ralph age 92 of Kettering peacefully passed away at home on Thursday, August 15, 2013. Born March 8, 1921 in New Boston, OH to the late Tenna and James Whitaker, Ralph was the 7th of 8 siblings and the last survivor. Also preceding him was his beloved wife of 68 years Mary L. Whitaker, who passed away in May of 2010 and a son-in-law, Herbert “Chuck” Hertenstein. Survivors include his son Timothy Whitaker, daughter Sharon Hertenstein, grandchildren: Mark Hertenstein, Traci (Jason) Gabbard and Carla (Bryan) Shepard, great-granddaughters Charlotte and Lydia Gabbard and one great granddaughter on the way, and numerous nieces and nephews. Ralph was a proud GM retiree with 45 years of service. He retired from Delco Moraine, Wisconsin Blvd plant, as a Group Leader in the tool room. Ralph was a World War II veteran of the US Merchant Marines, seeing service in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Mediterranean Zones. He was a member of American Legion #598 and UAW local #1040. Ralph was well known for his love of cars and racing and loved to show off his many GTO’s, Camaros and Corvettes. The family would like to thank Hospice of Dayton for their care and support. Friends may visit from 6 to 8pm Monday, August 19, 2013 at the Tobias Funeral Home, Belmont Chapel. The service will be held at 10AM, Tuesday at the funeral home with Pastor Steve Kimpel officiating. The graveside service will follow at 1pm at Mound Cemetery in Piketon, OH. Memorial contributions may be made in Ralph’s name to Hospice of Dayton.