Obituary of Harry Whittaker

Obituary WHITTAKER - Harry peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at the age of 78 after over 20 years of continuous health battles. He was surrounded with an abundance of love from his blended family. Harry is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Shawn; by his children David (Judith Allen), Chris (Laura), Michael (Margo), Stephen (Nathalie), and Kathryn, and 11 grandchildren, his chosen family Michael (Karen), Jon (Cher) and Kelly, and 8 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren and also by his sister Ann Hamby (Ian) and his sister-in-law Donna Wakefield. Harry is predeceased by his parents Alvin and Ida Whittaker and by his brother John. Harry was the founder of the St. Thomas Canvas & Awning Company. He was a member of the St. Thomas Optimist Club for over 40 years and member of the Elgin County Railway Museum. When he worked as a volunteer baker for the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Tuck Shop, he became the “muffin man.” He will be lovingly remembered for his generous, accepting and joyful ways. The family would like to thank the Respiratory Therapists, the Nurses, and other staff of the 2nd floor of St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital and Dr. Philip Andros for their care of Harry in his final days. The family welcomes Harry’s friends to the visitation at the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home, 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570) on Friday, March 29th from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Rite will be held at New Vision United Church, 38 Aldborough Avenue, St. Thomas on Saturday, March 30th beginning at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception. A private Interment of ashes service will take place in Highland Memory Gardens, Toronto at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Elgin County Railway Museum would be greatly appreciated. Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.sjfh.ca To send flowers to Harry's family, please visit our floral section.