Don Whitaker

1956 - 2014

Don Whitaker
7/4/1956 - 8/13/2014
Donald Whitaker was born July 4, 1956 in Pocatello, Idaho. He is the son of Carl Whitaker and Mary (Betty) Davies. He attended Washington Elementary, Franklin Jr. High, and Highland High School. He graduated from Granite High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. He married in 1974 and had four daughters, Crystal, Kandi, and twins Kim and Kori. He is survived by his parents, Allan & Betty Davies, sisters, Sherrie & MariLana and brothers, Dave, Ed,Torrey, & Tracey and numerous nieces and nephews.
He joined the Army and was honorably discharged. He spent time in Virginia for Basic Training and was on assignment in Germany. Don was a devoted and loving father. He loved his daughters and was always there for them. They were his life.
Don worked at a variety of jobs. What seemed to fit him best was the janitorial business where he could work at night on his own and at his own pace. Janitorial jobs seemed to find him regardless of where he lived including Missouri, Utah, and Idaho. For a time he also had his own janitorial business in Salt Lake City where he cleaned a variety of notable businesses and buildings. He graduated from Truck Driving School in 2004. He enjoyed this career for a short time.
Don was a soft hearted kind and compassionate man. Some people bring home stray dogs and cats, but Don brought home homeless folks he met. One became a special friend and was considered a grandfather by his children. They fondly referred to him as "Old Man Chuck". Don cared for Chuck during his final years. During Chuck's illness he served as his caregiver and most importantly as friend until he passed. Don never had an enemy, couldn't hold a grudge, and forgave anyone of any offense.
His grandchildren include Kaylee, Taisha,Tara Z, Miranda, Kiah, Colton, McKayla, Meghan, Christian, Quenton, and Kierra. His great grandchildren are Kadance and Harmony. They all lovingly referred to him as "Poppa".
For the last couple of years while living in Missouri he developed a special relationship with Tosha and her five children. Her children loved and accepted him as family. Daily phone calls and texts helped sustain him during his illness. They said they had never met anyone as kind as Don.
As he recently battled cancer he demonstrated an extraordinary resilience and will to capture every moment available on this earth. He endured extreme pain all while maintaining his sense of humor, loving spirit, and sweet smile. During his final weeks he was cared for by a number of family members that loved him deeply and was surrounded by love as he passed. He was preceded in death by a grandson, his father and a brother.
He will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, family, and the many friends he leaves behind.
A Celebration of Life was held August 15th.