Gordon Whitney
February 17, 2014
Gordon A. Whitney, 79, was born February 12, 1935, in Des Moines, the son of Clair and Iva (Rhodes) Whitney. He passed away February 17, 2014, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.
Gordon is survived by his loving wife, Beverly, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage; children, Brent (Terry) Whitney, Kurt (Susan) Whitney, Kimberly (Kim) Kingkade, and Rachelle "Shelley" (Terry) Coomes; brothers, Norman and James (Kathy) Whitney; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Chuck Randles; and sister-in-law, Mavis Whitney.
Gordon grew up in Norwoodville and then graduated from Des Moines Tech High School. He attended Iowa State University for two and a half years, and later went into the construction trade where he found his life-long passion. He worked as a commercial carpenter through the Carpenter's Local 106 becoming known in his trade as a highly skilled finish carpenter. His love for building was passed on to his sons and family. Gordon could fix anything he put his efforts to and was always looking for the next project.
With Bev, they raised their four children and the family grew to include their spouses - that Dad considered his own. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were such an important part of his life and he treasured spending time with them. On any given day, he could be found going to his grandchildren's school activities and sporting events. He welcomed every opportunity to gather with his family to share Grandpa-time and to create lasting memories that will live with his grandchildren forever.
He enjoyed go-carting in his early years, camping, family reunions, and traveling in their RV. He was truly at home on the golf course, rarely missing his weekly tee times with friends! His open, outgoing personality drew in a large circle of friends, with whom he spent many long hours just talking. Everyone who met Gordon loved him, and felt important and valued.
We celebrate his life and cherish the special legacy he left us. His church home was New Hope Assembly of God where each year he grew closer in his relationship with the Lord. Dad was loved and will be missed by all, but his spirit will continue...
The family will greet friends from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, February 21, 2014, at Hamilton's near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, at New Hope Assembly of God, 4425 70th Street, Urbandale, with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Condolences for the family may be offered online at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Those desiring may make contributions in Gordon's memory to the family, who will later establish a fitting memorial.
Jerry and Linda McCullough
02/21/2014
What a wonderful message Tom wrote, glad our friends Wayne and Donna were your friends our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Jo burns
02/20/2014
So sorry. Our class is getting smaller.
Judy Davidson
02/20/2014
Gordon was a gentle giant, and his smiles lit up the world - now you can keep those smiles in your hearts. My deepest sympathies to you and your family, Bev. May God surround you with love and strength.
Bob Veal
02/20/2014
My thoughts are with the family. Gordon was one of the good ones.
Tom Hagen Sr.
02/20/2014
Gordon and I became friends working on some of the same jobsites. He was a very talented carpenter who liked to figure out "the hard stuff" and how it could be constucted. I later met the Boys. Brent mentored my son as a first year carpenters apprentice. I enjoyed seeing Gordon at the yearly carpenters retiree supper. A fine gentleman. I suspect he will show Jesus a thing or two about being a carpenter. I am saddend by his loss and pray for your sadness at this time.
Barb Semprini
02/20/2014
I am so saddened by the loss of Gordon. Bev and Gordon are very special people and a wonderful couple to call friends. My deepest condolences to the Whitney family.
Nicole miller
02/20/2014
As I write this I write it with a very heavy heart. I was given the privilege to meet and work with and become friends with Gordan and Bev and their family they are the most loving people I have met and I have never seen a more loving and caring family for a long time till I met the Whitney's they are one in a million my prayers and condolences go out to the family he will be missed and thought of by many
Mick & LavonaWebb
02/19/2014
Our deepest condolencesgoodbyes are not forever, or the end, they simply mean you'll be missed until you meet again. May the many years of memories be forever in your heart.
Don and Sandy Nelson
02/19/2014
Bev and family. Sorry to hear about Gordon. Very nice person. Will be missed.
LINDA & DAN STEELE
02/19/2014
So sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family. May family and friends help you find peace.