Samuel Whiting Obituary

Samuel Whiting
March 8, 1944 - October 14, 2020
San Diego
A giant of a man left this earth after having lost a mighty battle with pancreatic cancer. A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Sam lived a rich life of dedication to his community, family and friends. Born in Boston, raised in Wilton NH, Sam's career and adventurous spirit took him to the West Coast and back East twice - working in avionics, on the F-14 and the first LEM to land on the moon. His entrepreneurial drive brought him back to CA as a McDonald's franchisee for 20 yrs, followed by leadership positions in other franchise companies.As co-founder of The Child Abuse Prevention Foundation and Director of Ronald McDonald Charities, he served his community with his head and his heart, always thinking of others. Except when golfing - at which time the competitor surfaced.He valued integrity, loyalty, kindness, and humility. His charm, humor, and fun-loving spirit were cherished by all.He will be missed greatly by loving wife, Theresa Latosh and 5 children: Chris, Tim, Philip, Amy & Kimball and 6 adoring grandchildren.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.www.pancan.org

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Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Oct. 18, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Whiting

10 Entries

Donna Slaybaugh

April 5, 2021

Theresa,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Sam. He was such a nice man - very gentle and kind to all. Every time I'm in San Diego, I think of the times working with all of you and the happy memories from so long ago. May you find comfort and peace.
-Donna

Mike Hood

October 21, 2020

So sorry to hear of Sam's passing! He gave me my first 'real' job at the Pacific Beach McDonalds in the late 70's and I later become one of the managers. I'll always have fond memories of him visiting the store to check up on us- in a good way! Those early experiences have served as a great foundation to my later business success. Hard to believe my oldest son today is the age Sam would have been at that time. At his then age 34, he seemed like such an old guy to a young 16 year old beach kid. I remember he eventually had to limit the employees free food policy because I would often eat all my meals there! He was a great influence and I'm sure he and Ray Kroc are sharing some memories- and perhaps a shamrock shake!

Ruth

October 21, 2020

I never met sam in person but knowing his wife Theresa for more than 15 years I feel I knew him.
Theresa’s eyes lighten when she talked about him with so much love passion.
After reading about his amazing life and what an amazing person he was I wish I met Him!
So sorry for your loss
May he Rest is peace and be surrounded with angels ❣

Andrew Brewerton

October 21, 2020

Dear Theresa & family,
Such sad news to learn of Sam's passing. My thoughts and wishes are with you and your family at this difficult time. It was so apparent to everyone who met you both how much you loved each other. He will be greatly missed by us all. I enjoyed our social gatherings as much as I did working with Sam. I learnt much from him due to his kind and generous nature.

Gregory Hahn

October 20, 2020

Sincere condolences to Teresa and the family.

Amy Verhoef

October 19, 2020

Dad,
Words cannot express how grateful I am to be a part of your family and to be your daughter. I miss you so much. Thank you for everything you have done for me in my life and for being such an amazing father and grandfather. I have so many memories, so many good memories. Our trip to Hawaii, eating at Planet Hollywood, accidently stumbling across a nude beach when we went for a walk, bike riding in the canyons, watching Austin Powers, eating at Red Robin with Louis, Jamie, Theresa, my mom and Tonne, playing catch at Green Lake in Washington, the Padres/Mariners baseball game, eating Fig Newtons and watching TV, going on the Sailboat when you met Chad for the first time ........ as I type they just keep coming. I love you and as I am so sad for myself and your family and friends, I am thankful you are not in pain anymore. I just wish I could have had that one last hug. One more chance to say I love you and that I was so proud to have you as my daddy. The world lost a beautiful, kind, gentle man.
Love always,
Amy

Teresa

October 18, 2020

I had my first job at Sam’s McDonalds in Rancho Penasquitos. He was always so kind and encouraging of my college ambitions. I eventually became an assistant manager. Whatever people think of working at a fast food restaurant... it/he bought my first car and put me through college. Sam always welcomed me back for Christmas, spring break and summers. I am now retired from high tech, banks, insurance and Nike and no longer drive a brown Pinto wagon. He is an unforgettable influence.

Debi Long

October 18, 2020

He was a very gentle, kind, sweet man. I’m going to miss him in our dental office. And I’ll always remember the tickets he & Theresa shared with me & Sharon & how special it was to see the Padre game last year! I love hot dogs too so I think of him when I have one. I feel very blessed I got to know him.

Ela I Janek

October 18, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Sylvia Stephens

October 18, 2020

Teresa & family,

I am very sorry to hear of Sam’s passing. Prayers for your family during this difficult time and wishing you all the best.

Condolences,
Sylvia (Jarosz) Stephens

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