Kenneth T. Whittlesey

Kenneth T. Whittlesey, age 101, of Independence, MO., passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. He was born on May 28, 1923, in Wagoner, OK, to Frank and Ola Whittlesey. He is survived by two sons, Harold (Sue) and Howard (Colleen); seven grandchildren: Miley, Melanie, Ashli, Leah, Edwin, Nathan, and Myron; a number of great- and great- great grandchildren. One brother, Floyd, in California.

Kenneth married his wife, Billye, on March 14, 1940. They celebrated a loving marriage for just under 55 years.

He joined the armed services (Army-Air Corp) in December 1941, working as an airplane mechanic on B17 and B25 aircraft, and was an instructor to new recruits. His discharge was in 1945, as a Sergeant, with several honors for his quality service. He began working for General Motors, as a welder, for 14 years, then purchased a paint store, which he ran for 14 years. He began driving school buses, and enjoyed driving for senior citizens on their outings. For several years He dressed up as Santa Claus and visited nursing homes at Christmas time, to cheer up those who resided there. He drove for Skelgas, delivering propane fuel to residents.

His other great pleasure was being a Christian. He attended Vivion Road, Roan Ridge, South Platte, and Sterling Avenue Church of Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Billye (Boyd) Whittlesey, His second wife Minnie, and his third wife Grace, two brothers, Frank Jr. and Ewell, two sisters, Dorothy and Virginia.