Celebration of Life “Still Plowing”

W.J. “Bill” Whitney

A long time resident of Central, W.J. “Bill” Whitney, passed away at his home on Oct. 24, 2011, a few days short of his 98th birthday.  He moved his family to the Central area in 1952 to a home that was built in 1910.  The home did not have indoor plumbing and Joor Road was gravel.  Few residents can remember that era!

He worked as a carpenter for a local union.  He loved his garden which he planted a few times each year.  Even this past April, with the help of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildern, a summer garden was planted.

The Central City News featured Mr. Whitney on his 97th birthday in the Oct. 28, 2010 edition entitled “Still Plowing on 97th Birthday.”  The family feels that he is still plowing but moved to another field.

All eight of his children were at his side during his last few weeks.  He was married to the late Marguerite Kolb Whitney.  They had eight children, 35 grandchildren, and 73 great-grandchildren.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and very proud of his country and family.  He was a great husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  He will be greatly missed.