NEW BEDFORD — Joseph R. Whitaker Jr., 50, of New Bedford, died unexpectedly March 4, 2009, at St. Luke's Hospital after battling lung cancer. He was the son of Joseph and Helen (Murphy) Whitaker, who preceded his death.
A 1978 graduate of New Bedford High, Joseph was originally from Fairhaven and a communicant of Saint Mary's Church.
In his youth he was employed by St. Luke's Hospital along with his father, mother and two sisters at various times.
Joe became an over the road truck owner with his brother in 1982. They drove for various companies, Mayflower of Carmel, IN, Ranger of Jacksonville, FL and even hauled cranberries for Ocean Spray when in season for Nichols Trucking.
Changing careers he became a computer operator and held jobs for various companies including Ocean Spray of Middleboro. His last job was Fidelity in Plymouth.
A photography enthusiast he enjoyed taking pictures when visiting family and friends, dining out and especially going to the movies and Horseneck Beach.
Joe's passing was far too early and will be loved and missed by his surviving family and friends.
Survivors include two sisters, Susan D. Anderson and her husband, Chuck of Wilbraham, MA and Grace M. Whitaker of Cypress, CA; a brother, Charles J. Whitaker of New Bedford; and a niece, Stephanie McGriff and her husband, Bryan of Shoreline, WA, and their children, Forrest and Rowan McGriff.
His memorial service will take place on Tuesday, March 10th at 2 P.M., in the Wilson Chapel, 479 County St., New Bedford.
Remembrances may be made in his name to St. Luke's Hospital Rogers Unit, 101 Page St., New Bedford, MA 02740.