DENNIS BEATTY WHITTAKER

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DENNIS BEATTY WHITTAKER Dennis died peacefully on August 13, 2007. His last days were spent comfortably at Riverview Health Centre. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Barbara; his two sons, Roger (Beth), and Mark (Bev); his daughter Christina (Ted); and his grandchildren, Kevin, Lauren, Colin and Heather. Dennis was born on July 13, 1923, in Penwortham, Preston, Lancashire, England. He was educated in Preston where he attended Hutton Grammar School. He took great pride in his role as a school prefect. In 1942 he joined the Royal Air Force where he trained as a bomb aimer and served with the Royal Canadian Air Force until June 13, 1943, when his plane was shot down. He spent two years in a P.O.W. camp and survived The March out of Prussia before being liberated in 1945. After returning home, Dennis attended Manchester University where he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. In 1950 he married Barbara Brown and in 1954 they immigrated to Canada. Initially they lived in Burnaby, BC, where their three children were born. In 1964 the family moved to Fredericton, NB, and finally in 1975, to Winnipeg. Dennis retired in 1988 from a successful career as a professional engineer in which he contributed to several large hydroelectric projects. He was an active member of the Wartime Pilots' and Observers' Association. He was always thoughtful and gracious, even up to his last days. Dennis was an active man and enjoyed lengthy walks with the dogs in his River Heights neighbourhood. Dennis will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends. The family would like to express their deepest thanks to all of those who provided such kind support over the last few years. The depth of the family's appreciation for the unending kindness by neighbours and close friends can not be adequately expressed. Thank you to Dr. Mellon, homecare, Drake Meddox, the Community Palliative Care Program, and Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care for their care and compassion. Dr. Spice and the Charleswood Veterinary Clinic ensured the other family members cherished by Dennis, the dogs, were cared for with the same high regard. A private funeral service for immediate family has been held at Thompson in the Park Funeral Home and Cemetery on Thursday, August 16, 2007. Thomson In the ParK Funeral Home and Cemetery 1291 McGillivray Blvd. www.thomsoninthepark.com 925-1120

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 18, 2007