Donald Ray Whitener

HICKORY - Donald Ray Whitener, 72, passed away Friday, April 3, 2015 at Frye Regional Medical Center after several months of declining health. Donald was born March 5, 1943 in Fayetteville, NC. to the late Ray Osborne Whitener and Ruth Moretz Whitener. Donald was preceded in death by an infant brother Stony Whitener, and a sister Vivian W. SigmonDonald was a member at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Claremont and had a very strong faith in God. He was a graduate of Lenoir Rhyne College where he earned his degree in math and physics. He was a Veteran of the U. S. Army and served his country during the Vietnam era at the Pentagon. Donald was then employed at W.C. Reynolds Co. Inc., and was a member of the American Legion Post 48.

Surviving is his wife, Lynn Sigmon Whitener of the home; Daughters April Chambers of Madison, WI and Anna Whitener of Hickory; Grandsons Evan Hollar and Camdon Collins, and Granddaughter Savannah Whitener of Hickory; Brother Tony Moretz Whitener and wife Karen of Taylorsville; and Brother-in-law Lewis Sigmon of Todd, NC and numerous nieces and nephews.A private memorial graveside service will be at Oakwood Cemetery and military rites will be conducted by The American Legion Post #48.A memorial service will be held on Sunday April 12th at 2:30 PM at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Claremont with Reverend Wesley Frye officiating. Memorials may be made to Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Rd, Newton, NC 28658 and or to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 3180 W. Main St, Claremont, NC 28610.Condolences may be made online at www.hickoryfh.com.Hickory Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.