C. KEITH WHITTAKER M.D.

C. Keith Whittaker, MD, was born into eternal life on Friday, October 7, 2011 surrounded by the people who meant most to him in this life. Dr. Whittaker was born September 4, 1932, the son of Justice Charles E. Whittaker and Winifred Pugh Whittaker. He was raised in Kansas City, attending St. Elizabeth grade school and Rockhurst High School. During high school he met his match, his mate, and his guiding love, Patricia Collins, the woman who would share his wonderful journey for the remainder of his life. He attended Princeton University, then medical school at Northwestern University, and residency in neurosurgery at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Following a two-year assignment with the U.S. Air Force in San Antonio, he returned to KU to finish his training. He practiced mainly at St. Luke's Hospital, but was on staff at several area hospitals. His skill as a surgeon, his dogged pursuit of proper diagnosis, and his complete intolerance of anything short of perfection were legendary in the medical community. He touched many lives in his career, as a healer, a mentor, and a teacher. His superior intellect and pursuit of excellence belied the humble man who never forgot that his extraordinary talents were gifts from a generous God. Although he was devoted to his role as a doctor, his true passion was family, with whom he spent all of his time away from work. He and Pat raised seven children and were blessed with 23 grandchildren. Family dinners, whether here in Kansas City or at any of the numerous locations where he delighted to travel with his family, were a treasure that resulted in many happy meals and memories which we carry with us in his absence. Though he suffered in his final years, no complaint or self-pity was ever heard from his mouth. To know him was a gift, to love him a treasure. Those of us who knew and loved him carry an imprint on our hearts and we are richer for the experience. Keith was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gary, and his son Brian, who are rejoicing at being reunited. He leaves to miss his enormous presence his wife of 57 years, Pat, sons Tom (Lissa), John (Anne), and Martin, daughters, Ann Lindboe (Dan), Laura Gibson (Bob), and Mary Coit (Ken), and the 23 grandchildren who loved their Papa as a playmate and prankster. Friends may call on the family at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 5250 Mission Road, Roeland Park, KS, on Tuesday, October 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Agnes Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 12, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Sisters, Servants of Mary, 800 N. 18th St., KCK 66102, Rockhurst High School, 9301 State Line Rd. KCMO, St. Agnes Church, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, KS 66205, or Catholic Community Hospice, 9740 W. 87th, OPKS 66212. Assisted by Funeral Advocates, LLC. Arrangements by Signature Funerals, 8019 State Line Rd., Kansas City, MO 64114, 816-214-5174. www.signaturefunerals.com S