Michael Whitney

CINCINNATI -- Michael George Whitney, 57, of Cincinnati, Ohio, peacefully passed away on September 29, 2024, the feast of St. Michael. Michael is survived by his wife, Alison and sons, Zachary, Marshall, Jordan and Caleb; his siblings: Bill (Eileen) Whitney, Jerry Whitney, Chris Arthur, Michele Biggerstaff, Greg (Deb) Whitney, Lisa (Jimmy) McMullen, Laurie (Doug) Frueh, Meg (Tom) Castleman, Jamie (Bob) Fitzgerald; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Brad (Tammy) Bundy, Bryan (Amy) Bundy, Lara (Johnny) Peacock; and mother-in-law, Joan Bundy. He is also survived and missed by his 36 nieces and nephews and 45 great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Janet and William Whitney, father-in-law, Brent Bundy, sister and brother-in-law Kathi and Leo Conners, nephew, Jason Arthur, and infant siblings Mary Jo Whitney, Patricia Marie Whitney, Maureen Lucille Whitney and Timothy Joseph Whitney.

Born on September 4, 1967, in Lima, Ohio, Michael was the beloved baby of 14 children. His home was filled with love and laughter. A 1985 graduate of Lima Central Catholic High School, he made friends wherever he went, maintaining many close friendships over the years. Michael graduated from Miami University in 1989, joining Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, even being named "Mr. Miami". As much as he loved the Miami RedHawks, he would never turn down an opportunity to cheer on his treasured Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.

Shortly after college, he met the love of his life, Alison (Bundy). Right after becoming engaged, Michael found out he had a brain tumor. After a grueling fight for his life, the two celebrated their love (along with beating the incredible odds) with a national wedding on Live with Regis and Kathie Lee. Michael and Alison would go on to make homes in Tennessee, Kentucky, and eventually return to Ohio with a larger, complete family.

Michael had a strong faith in and love for God. He had a heart for children and the underserved, leading him to embark on many domestic and international mission trips. He was notably generous, sacrificing his time and resources to anyone who needed it. He believed strongly in our calling to serve the least of these. This calling was fulfilled by opening his heart and home to the children who would become his sons.

Michael enjoyed a successful career in Finance and Banking. He spent years socializing and spending time with friends and extended family. He traveled the country, looking for the next fun adventure. He was outgoing and welcoming, always up for a party. He loved his big family and made it a priority to show up. Michael will be remembered for his dedication to his family and friends, his sense of humor, his generosity and, of course his love for Diet Mountain Dew.

Michael suffered from health challenges throughout so much of his life. He embraced his battles and fought for healing and wholeness. He was given "more than his share." He endured suffering daily yet never wavered in his steadfast faith in God, perhaps his most remarkable trait. He fought the good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7). His suffering is now over. His race has been won. He is enjoying the best party of all. No doubt, he is the guest of honor.

If you would like to honor him, the family is asking in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Mayfield Brain and Spine Center, Hospice or the American Cancer Society. A special fund is being created to support his sons. A celebration of life is planned for early November. Details on both will follow.