William Woodard Whiting

William Woodard Whiting passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026 at UH TriPoint Medical Center, Concord. He was born November 5, 1928 in Cleveland. He was the son of the late DeForest and Blanche Whiting. His early years were spent in Painesville until he moved to Mentor, where he enrolled in Mentor High School, graduating in 1946. He continued his education at Muskingum College, where he was a music education major. Music has always been an important part of his life: singing in a boys’ choir, becoming a talented trombonist, and ending as a choir director at Mentor Christian Church, where he also started a handbell choir. He retired after 23 years. As a member there, he was elected trustee and deacon. After joining Mentor Plains United Methodist Church, he became a member of their choir. William’s employment was at TAPCO Valve Division where he was an automation operator. He worked there until his retirement after 36 years. He was also a 5+ gallon blood donor. As a member of the TRW bowling team, he maintained a 185 average, winning awards in tournaments. He married Ruth Ann Shaffer in 1950. They would have celebrated their 76th anniversary on June 24th. They always lived in Mentor, having built their home there, living through many remodels and additions. He was a close and caring son-in-law. His hobbies were diverse. He not only raised blue-ribbon New Zealand white rabbits, but also beautiful iris flowers. Mention should be made about how much he loved playing bridge with his friends. He and Ruth also played games together every day. Upon his retirement he became a partner in his wife’s antique business. He will be remembered as having a playful sense of humor and being a good father. He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Ruth Ann Shaffer; children, Kerry (David) Durkee and son, Curtis John Whiting of Madison, Ohio; grandchildren, Matthew Durkee of Mentor, Grace Hope of Lorain, Ohio and John Durkee of Florida; and great grandchildren, Noah, Ada Mae, Judah, Ben, Evan, Nicholas, Silas and Esther Durkee. A private family burial will be held in Mentor Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, Ohio 44060. Offer Condolences at www.brunners.com

William Woodard Whiting

November 5, 1928 - March 7, 2026