James Robert Whitmer

He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Olive Whitmer, wife, Jeanette Faehnle Whitmer, second wife, Priscilla and grandson, Andrew Pimley. He is survived by one sister, Jean, one brother, Tom, children, Pamela (Michael), Bob (Carol), Cathy (John), Don (Elizabeth), 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Mr. Whitmer was born on January 1, 1932 in Canton OH, where he was raised and brought up in the Catholic faith. He loved his Lord and Savior. Mr. Whitmer graduated from Leaman High school and The Ohio State University, with a degree in engineering in 1953. He married the former Jeanette Faehnle in 1954. Mr. Whitmer had a long and successful career in Human Resources with Firestone Tire Company, from 1953 until 1981; beginning in Akron, Ohio then later relocating to Los Angeles. He retired in 2000 after working another 19 years with Alumax Aluminum. His loved his work, enjoying the travel and negotiating labor contracts.

Mr. Whitmer was an avid golfer, playing many of his favorite courses in Southern California. He enjoyed driving his Cadillac and rooting for The Ohio State Buckeyes, flying the flag proudly, singing the fight song and expressing his dislike for The University of Michigan.

A long-time member of St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in Riverside, Mr. Whitmer was devoted to his faith and family. Visitation with the family will be on Monday, March 4, 2019 from 4:00–8:00 p.m., with a Rosary service at 6:00 p.m. at Acheson and Graham. A funeral Mass to celebrate his life will take place on Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, followed by a private burial.