Peter Landess Whitney

1937 - 2021

Peter Landess Whitney

Salem - On January 30, 2021 the world lost Peter Landess Whitney, a beloved husband, father, papa, friend, and Rotarian. Born on September 5, 1937 in McMinnville, Oregon to Harold "Pete" and Vivien Whitney, Peter was one of two children. He was raised in Eugene, Oregon where he attended Eugene High School. After he graduated, Peter attended the University of Oregon and graduated in 1960 with a bachelor's of science degree in business financing. Peter would enlist in the United States Army, and serve in Vietnam. Upon an honorable discharge, Peter would return to the University of Oregon and earn a second bachelor's of science degree in accounting, graduating in 1963. He started working for Bowers, Davis and Hoffman in the Salem area. Peter would join Bolt, Carlisle and Smith in 1972. He met the love of his life, Daphne Mann on a blind date and they married on June 7, 1969. They were blessed with daughters, Valerie and Sara and was a devoted father. In 1975 he was sent to work at the BC&S Stayton branch. He enjoyed the small town feel and being able to personally know every single client. He was a founding member of the Stayton Rotary and held several positions over the years, most recently was the active treasurer. In addition to Rotary, he served on the board for the Stayton Chamber, was a volunteer for the Stayton Library Foundation Development Committee and was on the board for the Oregon Board of Accounting Committee. He also served as a president of the local chapter of the National Association of Accountants and NAA's Northwest Regional Charter. Being an alumni of U of O, Peter was a loyal "Duck" fan and belonged to the Oregon Club of Willamette Valley as their treasurer. Peter was an avid golfer and was a member of the Santiam's Men Club since 1965 and was an active board member. With his calm demeanor, willingness to listen and voice of reason, Peter brought people together in whatever group he was involved with. It was for all of these reasons that he was garnered with the Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce's Distinguished Service Award in 2014. Peter was so very honored by receiving the award and true to his humble nature would say, "I think there are many people more deserving than I am". Although Peter may have left his earth, his impact on the people and the community in which he served leaves a lasting legacy. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Daphne Whitney; daughters, Valerie and Sara; 7 grandchildren; sister, Sandra Wilson, 3 nieces and their families; and lots of cousins. Additionally, in true nature of his generous kindness many "adoptive" children and grandchildren that were close friends of the family. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, May 8, 2021 from 1pm to 5pm at Santiam Golf Course located at 8724 Golf Club Rd. SE Aumsville, OR 97325.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests continuing Peter's legacy by making contributions in his name to the Stayton Area Rotary Foundation, PO Box 267, Stayton, OR 97383 or donations can be left with Columbia Bank Stayton branch. To view the full life story please visit weddle-funeral.com