William H. Whitaker

William H. Whitaker Battle Creek William Howard "Bill" Whitaker, 77, of Battle Creek and formerly of Muncie, IN, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. He was born February 1, 1931 in Gaston, IN the son of Ferrell Ellis Whitaker and Edith E. (Bannister) Whitaker. Bill brought the Sir Pizza franchise to Battle Creek from Muncie, Indiana in January of 1967 and at one time had three Sir Pizza establishments in Battle Creek. Bill retired in 1980 and his son still owns Sir Pizza. When he was in Muncie he was a building contractor of new homes. Bill married the former Rema Louise Smelser on November 10, 1950 in Muncie, IN; they have been married for 57 years. He is survived by his wife: Rema Louise Whitaker of Battle Creek; two sons: Gary Lee Whitaker and Carie Cook and Danny Ray and Deborah Whitaker, all of Battle Creek; six grandchildren: John Paul, Danielle, Daniel, David, Dana and Andrew; and one great-grandchild: Christopher Paul Vega. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers: Jack L. Whitaker in February 1993 and Larry E. Whitaker on April 17, 1972. William Whitaker graduated in 1949 from Muncie Central High School and came to Battle Creek in January 1967 from Muncie, Indiana. He enjoyed cars, working puzzles and truly loved being with his grandchildren. He loved playing golf, enjoyed televised football and basketball games. Enjoyed travel recently to see family and had recently enjoyed reading. He was a former member of the Muncie Jaycees and member of the Battle Creek Exchange Club where he was active on the bowling team and active in the annual Dental fund drive. He was a member of the Gethsemane Methodist Church in Muncie. Visitation will be held at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service after 12 noon Sunday where the family will be present from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral services to celebrate Bill Whitaker's life will be held 1:30 p.m. Monday (April 21, 2008) at the Christ Community Church (3142 Capital Avenue SW) with Pastor Alan Hofland officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial tributes may be made to American Liver Foundation or Battle Creek Exchange Club Dental fund. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, a member by invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes. (269)965-5145