James M. Whittaker ’62

James, known to us as “Jim” or “Whit,” died Dec. 1, 2014, of complications from Alzheimer’s.

Jim came to us from Parkland High School in Orefield, Pa. A politics major, he was in the Glee Club and Orange Key, worked at food services, and ate at Quad. His senior-year roommates included John Bender, Lew Weinstein, Dave Lee, and Don Baraf.

Jim led an inspirational life. A skilled woodworker and gifted tenor in community opera and church choirs, he had strong, informed opinions on political issues. Above all, Jim was a person of deep Christian faith. After his first wife, Carol, died, he raised their two sons. He was blessed to marry Yola in 1993.

He had a wonderful, appreciative sense of humor and a clear-headed sense of himself. He made important contributions at the Department of Defense and elsewhere, but he clearly knew that this was only a part of his life. His family, his friends, and his faith in God were the defining aspects of Jim’s life.

Jim is survived by Yola; his sons, Chris and Corey; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. To them all, the class offers its deepest sympathy.