Mystic — William Thomas Whittle, Co-owner of Whittle’s Willow Spring Farm, passed away Feb. 11, in St. Petersburg, Fla. He was born Aug. 29, 1938, to the late Frederick R. and Charlotte B. Whittle.
He leaves behind his wife, Yvonne Cava; sisters, Cecilia Whittle Basque (John), Carol Whittle Pratt; and stepdaughters, Melanie Cava (Todd Drevo), Scarlett Cava and Francesca Cava; along with his aunt Marjorie Brooks and many nieces and nephews. He took great pride in working alongside his nephew Rick Whittle and great-nephew Phil Whittle; together they made the farm flourish.
He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Robert and Richard Whittle; and his sisters, Elizabeth Whittle Hill and Dorothy Whittle Duguid.
Upon graduation from Robert E. Fitch Senior High School, he joined the U.S. Navy. He wanted to see the world. Upon his completion of his military service, he returned to Mystic to work the family farm for the rest of his life. He was known for his outgoing personality, good humor, and love of karaoke. His face was very familiar at the VFW in Mystic, where he was an active member. He enjoyed supporting their fundraising efforts. He loved his wintertime trips to Florida; where he was a member of the St. Petersburg VFW. He immediately made lasting friendships with the other members of the post.
Like all the Whittles before him he loved farming, worked hard, and had no desire to retire. Of all the jobs at the farm, his true passion was the sand and gravel pit. It was one of his greatest prides. His smile and presence will be sorely missed by family and friends.
Please omit flowers. Donations may be made in his memory to the VFW, 60 Stonington Road, Mystic, CT 06355.
Calling hours will be held between 3 and 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 4, and his nephew Rick Whittle, will give a reflection of his life between 4:30 and 5 p.m. at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St, Mystic. Celebration of his life will follow at the Mystic VFW