WHIPPLE, Thomas Alva (Tom)

Bunker Family Funeral & Cremation, Mesa, Arizona Thomas Alva Whipple February 15, 1937 ~ October 31, 2013 Thomas Alva Whipple, 76 passed away peacefully on October 31, 2013 in Phoenix, Arizona. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl and his three sons Tom Jr (Kimberly), Rory (Lori) and Burke (Elizabeth). He is also survived by his six step-children: Carrie Walden (Bill), Scott (Jennifer), David (Jamie), Paul, Deanna Chesley (Marc) and Shauna Benson (Chris). Tom is survived by 34 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his first wife Betty, and daughter Roxanne. He lived most of his life in his beloved state of Arizona. He served Winslow as their mayor for two terms. Throughout his life he was an active scouter. He served as president of the Grand Canyon Council and received the Silver Beaver award. Tom’s career was spent in the retail business. He owned a chain of small family “Whipple” department stores in northern Arizona. After receiving a master’s degree in international business he moved to Colorado where he lived for twenty years and worked as a retail business consultant. Tom and Cheryl retired and moved back to Arizona in 2012. He loved to spend time with his family, garden, travel and do research for a book that he was writing. Tom was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He was a well-respected businessman and served tirelessly as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Funeral services are Tuesday, November 5, 2013, at 11:00 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9:30 AM at the Queen Creek North LDS Stake Center, 22035 E. Ocotillo Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85242. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.