WHITAKER, John R.

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Saturday, October 08, 2011 John R. Whitaker, 76, passed away on Sept. 28, 2011, in Prescott, Ariz., after losing his battle with cancer. He was born on March 12, 1935, in Lovington, Ill., to Clifford and Irma Whitaker. John was a manager of the manufacturing and industrial engineering departments for ITT Cannon in Phoenix, Ariz., for many years. He was very industrious and creative. He was always working on some project. He was an avid reader, hiker, fisherman and storyteller. John is survived by his loving wife, Marlys Melin; son Daniel (Cathy) Whitaker; daughter S. Diane (Greg) Johnson; brothers James (Lois) and Joseph (Donna) Whitaker; sisters Janet (Verlon) Myers and Alice Meador; and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A memorial service for John will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011, at the Trinity Presbyterian Church, 630 Park Ave., Prescott. Donations in John's name may be made to the Marley Hospice House, 1063 Ruth St., Prescott, AZ 86301. Hampton Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements. Information provided by survivors.