Merle James Whiteman, 77, gained his angel wings at 10:08 p.m. on Nov. 17, 2022. He was at home surrounded by his wife, daughter, and grandkids.
He was born on Jan. 2, 1945, in Girard, Kansas, to Morris and Thelma (Dalton) Whiteman. He grew up and attended school in Girard, where he graduated in 1963.
He served in the Navy for four years and was a member of the Girard VFW Post 7479, as well as a devoted member of Mount Olive Baptist Church.
He worked at Pittsburg State University in Closed Circuit TV from 1967 until his retirement in 1999. Upon retirement, he managed the Girard Golf Course for eleven years. Merle's passions in life included golfing, hunting, fishing, and, most importantly, being a grandfather to his three grandkids, whom he absolutely adored. He was known as a warm, kind-hearted man and never met a stranger.
He married Irene Ellen Bennett on Jan. 12, 1967, in Miami, Oklahoma. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include one daughter, Kristine Ellen Bullard of Pittsburg, who cared for him in his final days; three grandkids, Adam James Biby of Olathe, Andrew James Biby of Pittsburg, and Nicole Kristine Bullard of Pittsburg; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Gerald Lee Whiteman.
Per Merle's wishes, he was cremated. He will be missed dearly by his friends and family. Please join us for a celebration of life on Saturday, Nov. 26, at 2 p.m. at Mount Olive Baptist Church. A memorial in Merle's honor can be mailed to or left at Mount Olive Baptist Church at 230 East 590 Avenue Girard, KS 66743, and will be given to Gentiva Hospice Services.