Willis R. Whiting, Jr.,60, of Worcester died Wednesday, May 14 in UMass Memorial University Campus after a courageous battle with cancer.
He leaves his wife and best friend Ellen N. (McCaffrey) Whiting with whom he shared his life. A son Willis R. Whiting, III of Auburn, a daughter Jennifer A. Whiting of Auburn, a step-son Nicholas J. Spielman of Leicester and his "favorite sister" Ellen I. Whiting of Auburn.
Willis was born in Worcester son of Willis R. and Helen (Gakubiak) Whiting, Sr. and grew up in Auburn where he lived for many years. He also spent a number of years in Leicester, before moving to Worcester in 2004. He was a graduate of Central New England College, Lowell Technical College and WPI's school of industrial management. he was employed at Morgan Construction for over 35 years where he was the Plant Engineer. He truly enjoyed his work and was a dedicated employee. He was Navy veteran serving his country proudly aboard the USS Guadalcanal.
Willis had many hobbies and interests over the years among them, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, gardening and cooking. He was a talented woodworker and made some beautiful furniture. He especially loved nature, the New England woods, the Maine Coast, Delta Blues music and fixing just about anything. He was a good man and will be truly missed.
Funeral services and burial in Pine Grove Cemetery, Leicester are private. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. MORIN-MORRISON FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester is handling arrangements.