David B. Whitney

David Burt Whitney, age 91, of Watertown, formerly of Detroit, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, holding Marliene's hand on February 19, 2026

David was born on November 11, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Edward and Mildred (Brown) Whitney. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as an Airman Basic (A/3C P) from April 8, 1952, to April 7, 1956. Later in life, he was honored to participate in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., a meaningful experience that allowed him to visit the memorials dedicated to those who served.

On November 17, 1956, David was united in marriage to Marliene (Fortmann)at St. Matthew's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. They were already making plans for their 70th anniversary.

After retiring from International Harvester, David enjoyed making wood crafts for family and friends. He took great pride in creating pieces that will be cherished for years to come. He also loved to instigate playful shenanigans with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, bringing laughter, smiles, and a bit of mischief to every family gathering.

David is lovingly survived by his wife Marliene. children: Ruth (James) DeBot of Westville, Indiana; Mildred (Harry) Bowey of Princeton, Wisconsin; and Michael (Vicki) Whitney of Pewaukee, Wisconsin.

He was a proud grandfather to Walter (Deanna) Ragland; Karrieann (Josh) Fritch; Jennifer DeBot; Michael DeBot; Jason Bowey; Justin (Alexandrea) Bowey; Kayla (Adam) Ninneman; and Kyle (Jackie Armstrong) Whitney.

He was further blessed with twelve great-grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Riley, Marilyn, Hazel, Louise, Sawyer, Conor, Coreen, Colin, Finley, Gracie, and Sophia.

David is also survived by his siblings Norman (Jan) Whitney and Ola (Jim) Pfaff; Marlene's siblings Elaine Koeppler and Robert (Linda) Fortmann; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, David Whitney; and his siblings Ed (Norma) Whitney, Irving Whitney, Manard Whitney, Carl Whitney, Harold (Faye) Whitney, Myrtle (Charles) Houlihan, and Marion (Don) Pohl. In-laws Lillian(Charles) Hanke, William Koeppler , Edwin(Sandy) Fortmann

David will be remembered for his deep love of family, his faithful service to his country, his craftsmanship, and the joyful mischief he shared with those he loved most.

Thank you to Marquardt Park Ridge staff and Commonheart Hospice for all your support and kindness.

A memorial service will be held at the Grove Chapel (1045 Hill St.) in Watertown, WI on Saturday March 7, 2026 at 12 p.m. with Rev. John Nehs officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather at the chapel for visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.