Birth date: Apr 14, 1956 Death date: Oct 11, 2016
William "Bill" Whitaker, age 60 of Centerville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at his home. William R. Whitaker, the son of LaVern and Donna (Harris) Whitaker, was born April 14, 1956 in Centerville, Iowa. He was rais Read Obituary
I was working in California when Whit passed away, and was deeply saddened to just recently learn of his death. He was my psych instructor at IHCC for three years and my therapist at Rathbun Mental Health for as many.He carried me through some of the most difficult times in my life, and somehow managed to help me put back together the many pieces of a broken me.There were times I walked into his office in tears, but later, came out with a smile on my face and a sense of hope in my heart.Although I never met his family, I felt I knew the three most important people in his life His wife Rhonda, and two children, Channing and January.Few times have I known a man who took his role as husband and father so seriously and with such modest pride. He enjoyed talking about his son's ambition in the film industry, and his daughter's love for jewelry and gemstones, yet he never bragged; he humbly shared.Bill said good parenting was simply taking every possible opportunity to let a child know he is loved. I'm sure he did.Bill spoke so highly of Rhonda and with so much affection, it was easy to see she was clearly the love of his life. He was a master at diversion and oftentimes a 50 minute therapy session would become an hour long conversation about politics, religion, children, or baseball. It wasn't until later in the day, I would realize he had purposely changed the subject to drive a point home that I would have otherwise missed.I know Bill was loved by many who will often enjoy memories collected in one of his classes or during time spent with him.It was an absolute pleasure to have known Mr. Whittaker.Much Peace to you, Whit .. Kathy Burns.
Lit a candle in memory of William 'Bill' Whitaker
Our son, Zane , played baseball for Indian Hills and thought the world of and loved Coach Whitaker. We pray that God grant you peace and comfort . We are so sorry for your loss.Steve & Tobi Gresback, Riverton, WY
Having lived away from home for some time, I was late to hear this sad news. I worked with Bill at the mental health center for several years and always enjoyed his company and stories of growing up in the hometown. He especially lit up when discussing January and Channing and spoke with them so lovingly, I felt that I knew them. Much sympathy to the family.
My life, along with countless others, was enriched, inspired, influenced, encouraged and forever changed by Whit. His dedication to IHCC was nothing short of exemplary. He had a knack of making you smile and laugh even when you didn't want to and thought you couldn't. My thoughts and prayers go out to Whit's family in this time and the future. Take peace in knowing that he meant a tremendous amount to a vast number of people.
Lit a candle in memory of William 'Bill' Whitaker
Lit a candle in memory of William 'Bill' Whitaker
Lit a candle in memory of William 'Bill' Whitaker
