James R. Whatmough

your birthday today you would have been 81 .. rest now love nana

I have waited far too long to send a message to all of you. I was one of the "kids" from Gordon College who eventually became one of Fran and Jimmy's "kids". They were my parents when I was living far from home for the first time in 1981. They saw me through all of the milestone events of my adult life - college, dating, wedding plans, first apartment, the birth of my first baby, etc. All I can say is, Jimmy had the sassiest sense of humor and was just a good devoted friend. He and my husband Gary shared many good times, even by phone the past few years now that we live far away in Missouri. Many tears were shed for you, his family, as well as for ourselves when we learned how ill he was at the end, knowing that we would not see him again or hear his voice. I have read the memories you all have written here and am so touched by each one. Marilyn, you and I met only once years ago very briefly at your parents' house, but I sure feel like I know a bit about the sweet little girl you once were having watched your family video with your mom many times! And, Bob, your dad could not have been more proud of his son. He spoke of you to us many times. Frannie, we love you! God bless you guys. Fondly, Susan (and Gary) Wittrock

The death of a parent is much like the birth of a child - one just can't comprehend the emotions until they are reality. I miss you Dad.
xo,
Suzie

miss you too bumpy. hope your with your Dad now know how you missed him , i'm taken good care of your cats they sure miss you given them all the treats love Nana

We miss you Bumpy

Happy Fathers day Dad.

Dear Bumpy,
My memories of you are composed of warm family times with Marilyn, Jim, Alex and Lindsay. Your sense of humor and gentleness will be missed. It is a relief to know that you no longer have to endure the pain that you shouldered so bravely, and for such a long time. My memories of you will be about that bravery, and your special warmth. Thank you Bumpy !

OUR SINCEREST SYMPATHY TO YOU FRAN. IT'S HARD TO LOSE THE ONE'S WE LOVE.
BUT KNOW JIM IS WITH HIS HEAVENLY FATHER.
YOU WILL BE IN OUR PRAYERS AND
KNOW GOD WILL CARRY YOU THOUGH THIS.
AGAIN WE ARE SO SORRY.
GOD BLESS.
LOVE ALWAYS.
FRANK AND ARLENE

Bumpy,
Hearing the sad news about your passing was extremely hard for me. You're the only grandfather that I've ever known. I have a lot of great memories, like driving the tractor with you and being excited for you when you recieved dried appricots for Christmas. I may not remember a lot of the things we did when I was young, but I love to look at pictures, like you tickling me or you and I hand in hand walking to the park. And it reminds me that you and I had a very special relationship to begin with. I was always overjoyed when you and Nana came to visit us for Christmas. And I will miss seeing you walking down the terminal towards us. You're an amazing guy, and a wonderful grandfather. You'll always be in my heart. And I'll always miss you. Rest in Peace. I love you!
Your Grandson

Bumpy,
I hope you find yourself in a better place now, rest in peace. Sure hope the salt shakers are easy to open! What fun we had New Year's Eve! Thanks for the memories.
Maggie

My grandfather Bumpy,
I know that I am young to lose my grandfather, but I know he had a very, very good life. He had three wonderful grandchildren and two affectionate children. When I was very little, young enough to remember up until this age I said to myself, that is my grandfather the funny, loving, sleepy grandpa the one I will always remember throughout my life no matter what happens. I didn't get to see him as much as I would've liked to. At most it was once a year, and then he couldn't fly out anymore. Once I found out he wasn't doing well I was very sad. My mother had to fly out a lot to see him. Then I knew I wouldn't see him again. He was the best grandfather, and only Bumpy that I ever had. When ever I hear his name now-a-days I'm no longer sad, although you'd think I would be. I think of all the good times me, Alex, Mom, Dad, and Nana had together like the trips to the hardware store and Christmas dinner, the laughs the disappointments and all in between. I knew him for 12 years the wonderful, memorable years. I know I can't be with you today but Bumpy will be in my thoughts forever. Bumpy I will never forget you. I love You!!!

Even though I could not be present in person, I am with you all in spirit. It has been nearly 30 years since I first met Jim (this was long before he picked up the indelibly memorable nickname of Bumpy, courtesy of his granddaughter Molly). Several years later, I asked him for his daughter's hand in marriage, and he said: "OK with me ... what does she think?" When I was trying to decide where I should start my career, he game me sage advice: "When you don't like where you are, it's a long time between vacations." Ultimately, this put us on a path to California and a great life for our family. I will always remember Bumpy the way he is shown in this picture, hand-in-hand with his grandson Alex.

My sincerest condolences to Bob, and all your family. I don't know if you will remember me, it's been more than 30 years since we worked together in the Jewish cemeteries in Danvers. Just yesterday I was telling my wife Suzan about the comedy routines you used to do back then. Sorry that I won't be able to attend the services, but wanted to extend my sympathy to an old friend.