Donald A. Whitney

Donald A. "Don" Whitney Loving Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Big Poppa and Big D Donald "Don" A. Whitney, 83 of Rockford, past away after a long illness fought with courage and humor. He died on Friday, November 23, 2007 in Riverbluff Nursing Home with his loving wife Betty and family at his side. Born April 6, 1924 in Durand, son of Arthur and Helen (Snyder) Whitney. Married Betty J. Nelson in the Old Stone Church on November 5, 1948. Don lived most of his life in the Rockford area and worked for Beloit Corporation until he began his own business as Gessner & Whitney Builders and then later as Don Whitney Builders. He is a member of Faith Lutheran Church, enjoyed playing cards, bowling, fishing and NASCAR. He was a past president and member of Rockford Home Builders, serving his presidency in 1974 and 1984. His family will always cherish his wonderful sense of humor and how he truly enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A special thank you to the nurses and staff at Riverbluff Nursing Home cardinal wing and to Northern Illinois Hospice. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Betty; children, Barbara J. Nelson of Rockford, Michael D. Whitney of Las Vegas and Katherine (Gary) Johnson of Machesney Park; grandchildren, Lisa (Craig) Kuehne of Machesney Park, Angela Johnson of Colorado and Michelle Johnson of Machesney Park; great grandchildren, Devynn, Alyssa, Alexis and Tara; numerous nieces, nephews and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Raymond and Robert. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at Faith Lutheran Church, 3630 N. Rockton Ave., at 11:00 a.m. Visitation on Tuesday, November 27 from 5-7 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave. and will continue on Wed. at church from 10-10:45 a.m. Interment will be held in Floral Lawn Cemetery, S. Beloit. In lieu of flowers memorial may be made to: Faith Lutheran Church, Riverbluff Nursing Home or to Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center.