Gary D. Whittemore's Obituary
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Gary Dean Whittemore on July 8, 2025 after a short battle with cancer and subsequent complications. He was born on November 20th, 1954 in Norfolk Virginia.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents, George Whittemore and Inez Whittemore (Gardner), as well as his son-in-law, William Bracking.
Gary graduated from the North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, North Dakota, in 1975 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Mechanical Drafting.
Gary dedicated 41 years of his life to the Boeing Company. He began his career working on the Minuteman Missile sites which were located throughout the Midwest, helping to build missile silos. Later he served as a Developmental Test Mechanic in Seattle. Throughout his time at Boeing, he was recognized with numerous achievements and bonuses, a testament to his exceptional work ethic and commitment to excellence. He retired in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and integrity.
On May 29, 1976, Gary married RaeDel Marie (Teets) at the Presbyterian Church in Minot, North Dakota. This year, they celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and partnership.
Gary is survived by his wife, RaeDel Whittemore, and their three children: Justin A. Whittemore of Bonney Lake, WA; Sara L. Bracking of Puyallup, WA; and Whitney M. Fey (Joel) of Provo, UT. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Micah G. Bracking (16), Payton A. Bracking (11), and Chase D. Whittemore (12). Though he won’t have the chance to meet him, he was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his newest grandson, Baby Fey, due November 19, 2025.
He is also survived by his sister, Kathie Hoselton of Fargo, ND; his brother, Bruce Whittemore (Kim) of Minot, ND; his sister, Janice of Tennessee, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.
Gary was the embodiment of selflessness. He was the kind of person who would go without if it meant someone else had what they needed. For many years, right up until his retirement, Gary quietly donated a bicycle each year to a child in need- just one of the many ways he gave from the heart.
A natural problem-solver, Gary could fix just about anything. He used every opportunity to create teachable moments for his children and grandchildren, always hoping to empower them with the skills to do things on their own one day. Whether it was vehicle maintenance or carpentry, he was eager to pass along his knowledge. He taught his kids and grandkids how to play sports, attended their games and events with pride, and even shared a bit of his guitar-playing know-how with his grandson Chase.
Gary had a passion for classic cars, drag races, and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He could identify the year and make of a vehicle just by hearing the engine. His love of music was constant- he enjoyed listening to radio shows like “Get the Led Out,” and “80’s at 8,” and was often playing music from YouTube on his phone throughout the day. His favorite artist was Burton Cummings of The Guess Who.
His garage was his sanctuary, a place where he spent time tinkering with cars and his Harley, and building projects. He built everything from strawberry planters and sheds to an entire house, dog houses, and flower boxes for his granddaughter Payton. No matter the project, he was always ready to lend a hand whenever he had a new idea or someone needed help. His oldest grandson, Micah, learned the basics of vehicle maintenance thanks to Gary’s thorough instruction. In retirement, Gary found great joy in gardening. He built his garden from the ground up, thoughtfully improving it year after year. He especially loved watching his cucumbers grow and took pride in sharing the fruits of his labor with his family.
Gary worked in the aerospace industry and was a proud member of the IAM 751 union for 41 years. More than anything, Gary was a devoted family man. He loved his family deeply and worked tirelessly to ensure they were cared for and supported. His quiet strength and steady presence were cornerstones in their lives.
He made lasting memories with his family on vacations to San Diego, Southern Utah, and Webb Lake in Maine. Though Gary was typically a quiet man who kept to himself, when he did open up, he was a gifted storyteller with an impressive memory and sharp wit. His conversations were rich with detail and warmth- something that will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Gary’s life was defined by quiet generosity, steadfast dedication, and a deep love for his family. As a devoted son, brother, husband, father, and grandad, he may never have sought the spotlight, but his presence was deeply felt by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the projects he built, and the many hearts he touched.
P.S. "Bruce, you're it" (a game he played with his brother for as long as we can remember. This was a treat to watch who was “it” whenever they were together).
“If we could have a lifetime wish,
And one dream could come true,
We would pray to God with all our hearts just to see and speak with you.
A thousand words won’t bring you back,
We know because we've tried.
Neither will a thousand tears,
We know because we've cried.
You left behind our broken hearts, and precious memories too.
But we never wanted memories,
We only wanted you.”
What’s your fondest memory of Gary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gary?
Share a story where Gary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gary you’ll never forget.
How did Gary make you smile?