John Whittaker

Herkimer - John (Jack) Leo Whittaker, age 76, a longtime resident of Herkimer, NY, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 4, 1949, in Herkimer, he was the son of the late Ronald and Catherine (Horan) Whittaker. Jack was a 1967 graduate of West Canada Valley High School. On June 20, 1970, he married Janet S. Cefaly, the love of his life. Though they later divorced after 30 years of marriage, they remained close friends and deeply connected through their family.

Jack proudly worked for the United States Postal Service for over 30 years. As both a mail carrier and technician, he was beloved by those he served and respected by his coworkers. His kindness, humor, and genuine care for people earned him many lifelong friendships that he treasured dearly.

A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Jack was truly a superhero to his children-John Whittaker, Tania Tobin, and Tammi Bowker. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life, and he shared a special and unique bond with each of them: Jamie Whittaker, Chastity Gorinshek, Shauna Wheatley, Samantha Smith, Alexandria Tobin, Madison Serrano, Lucy Serrano, Mia Tobin, Blake Whittaker, Lorenzo Malta, Jace Pierson, Cole Whittaker, Patrick Smith, Henry Smith, Jamison Pierson, Taegan Smith, and Conway Gorinshek.

Sundays were always reserved for family and friends, often spent watching football, playing poker, hosting pool parties, or enjoying a good game of chess. Jack was known for his unconventional wit, generous heart, and mischievous sense of humor. He always put the needs of others above his own and found joy in sharing his knowledge and life lessons with everyone around him.

Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him but will never be forgotten.

Funeral services for Jack will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, with Deacon Michael Carbone, officiating. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Herkimer. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the start of the service.

To leave condolences for Jack's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com