James Anthony Whitson
May 29, 1925 — March 18, 2023
James Anthony Whitson, 97, of Marion, Iowa, passed away at Hallmar Nursing Home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on March 18, 2023, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Per his wishes, James’ body has been donated to the University of Iowa for scientific and medical purposes. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. Arrangements by Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Marion.
James was born on May 29, 1925, in St. Louis, MO to James Frederick and Rosemary Whitson. He graduated from Chester High School (Chester, IL) in 1943, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the waning years of World War II. After the war, he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Denver University in 1950. James was a professional businessman, and held several job-titles throughout his career, including accountant, insurance salesman, restaurant entrepreneur, and financial analyst. On Feb 15, 1949, he married Winifred Louise Wise in Peoria, IL. They raised eight children, Tony, Nancy, Mike, John, Katy, Joe, Rick, and Steve.
James always put his family first, with church and friends being other high-priorities in his life.
He was a regular volunteer in his church, as well as with the local Boy Scouts. Family camping on vacation and weekends were regular. He exposed his children to music, sports, the outdoor, and community events. James worked hard to guide his children, promoting a high standard for truth, fairness, and respect for others. He was a good father.
James was preceded in death by his youngest son, Steven; and step-son, Brad Hendricks; as well as three spouses; Winifred Louise Wise, Rosena Hendricks, and Anne Emerson—each of whom shared more than twenty loving years with him.
He is survived by his remaining children; Tony, Nancy (Lindsey), Mike (Debbie), John, Katy, Joe (Ai-Lan), Rick (Chris), and Brad’s wife, Rose Hendricks; as well as twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
Although Alzheimer’s disease stole much of James’ memory from him in his waning years, our loving memory of him will endure.
James was born on May 29, 1925, in St. Louis, MO to James Frederick and Rosemary Whitson. He graduated from Chester High School (Chester, IL) in 1943, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the waning years of World War II. After the war, he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Denver University in 1950. James was a professional businessman, and held several job-titles throughout his career, including accountant, insurance salesman, restaurant entrepreneur, and financial analyst. On Feb 15, 1949, he married Winifred Louise Wise in Peoria, IL. They raised eight children, Tony, Nancy, Mike, John, Katy, Joe, Rick, and Steve.
James always put his family first, with church and friends being other high-priorities in his life.
He was a regular volunteer in his church, as well as with the local Boy Scouts. Family camping on vacation and weekends were regular. He exposed his children to music, sports, the outdoor, and community events. James worked hard to guide his children, promoting a high standard for truth, fairness, and respect for others. He was a good father.
James was preceded in death by his youngest son, Steven; and step-son, Brad Hendricks; as well as three spouses; Winifred Louise Wise, Rosena Hendricks, and Anne Emerson—each of whom shared more than twenty loving years with him.
He is survived by his remaining children; Tony, Nancy (Lindsey), Mike (Debbie), John, Katy, Joe (Ai-Lan), Rick (Chris), and Brad’s wife, Rose Hendricks; as well as twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
Although Alzheimer’s disease stole much of James’ memory from him in his waning years, our loving memory of him will endure.
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