Walter E. Whitmore, Jr.

February 1, 1944 - January 12, 2022

Walter E. Whitmore, Jr., age 77, passed away at his home in Bradenton, FL on January 12, 2022, after a courageous 4-year battle with liver cancer. Walter “Rip” was born in Croswell, MI on February 1, 1944 to Eleanor (Flannigan) Whitmore and Walter Whitmore. He enlisted in the US Air Force and served in Vietnam. After completing his service, he moved to Wellington, OH. Rip married Judy (Hesselbart) Whitmore in June 1970, and had two children, Cameron and Carlyn. They lived in Wellington OH for 42 years before retiring to Bradenton, FL in 2011. Rip was an entrepreneur who developed two businesses in northeast Ohio, The Nova Telephone Co. and SWAG Construction. He was a lifetime member of The American Legion. Rip was a handyman, an avid gardener, and skilled wood craftsman, who was known for his tenacity. He had the capability of turning less than ideal situations into something advantageous for all involved. He was never short on stories and was famous for his ability to coin a phrase. If an individual was willing to learn he was always willing to teach. Rip’s parents, and brother-in-law, Robert Cameron preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Judy, of 52 years, Cameron (Julie), Carlyn (Michael) O’Reilly; his grandchildren, Camden, Keegan, Maggie, and Shane; and siblings Dorthey Cameron, and Nancie (Edward) Elliott; as well as, several nieces and nephews. A private military inurnment service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to: Florida Cancer Specialists, The Manatee County Fire and Rescue, or The Gary Sinise Foundation (which supports veterans, first responders and their families). Arrangements by Toale Brothers Funeral Home.