RICHARD EDWIN "DICK" WHINERY

RICHARD EDWIN "DICK" WHINERY, 81, passed away on Monday, Dec. 5, 2011, of natural causes. He was a Dallas attorney for nearly 40 years. Born Oct. 21, 1930, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Wilbur, who was also an attorney, and Clella Mae Whinery. He grew up in Indiana with his sister, Mary. He earned a BS from Indiana University and an MA from Columbia University. During this time, he taught at high schools in Indiana and New York. While in college, he took 13 months out to serve in the Air National Guard during the Korean War. In 1958, he came to Dallas, where in 1964 he received his law degree at SMU. While studying law, he was also a juvenile probation officer for Dallas County. His law practice took him all over the Metroplex. He also did part-time teaching at Dallas Baptist College and El Centro Junior College. His true love was teaching history and he taught several evening classes throughout the years. After retiring in 2003, he since had lived in Fort Worth. He was a voracious reader and a great conversationalist with a quick wit who enjoyed heated political discussions and the company of friends. His memberships included the Acacia Fraternity, the Masonic Order, the American Legion, IOOF, and the state and local Bar Associations. Survivors include his daughter, Lori (John Jr.) Pickett of Anchorage, Alaska; son, Marc (Piaj) Whinery of Auckland, New Zealand; grandchildren, Parker and Ethan Pickett and Jacob and Adam Whinery; nephew, Scott Farley of Dallas; and longtime friend and companion, Ahdel Chadwick of Fort Worth. For those who knew him, there will be a celebration of Dick's life on from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011, at the Chadwick home. Memorials to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312, www.diabetes.org/donate; or a charity of donor's choice, in his memory. Arrangements by Robertson Mueller Harper Funerals & Cremations, 1500 Eighth Ave. (817) 924-4233 View and sign guestbook at www.star-telegram.com/obituaries