On February 25, 2012, Richard J. Whitaker died peacefully at home in Waldorf, MD after a long battle with multiple health issues. He was born October 29, 1933 in Olathe, Kansas to the late Don and Nancy Whitaker. He was the second youngest of seven. His younger brother Phil and his wife, Carrie still reside in the Kansas City suburbs.

Richard began working at age eleven and never stopped until his health slowed him down. He served in the Korean War, earned a degree from Pittsburg State University, and retired from the Internal Revenue Service after 30+ years, owned a hair salon and returned to work for the IRS as a contractor.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Joan; loving father to his daughter and three sons: Ann Whitaker Walter of Waldorf and her husband, Millard; David Craig Whitaker of Huntingtown; Bill Perotti of San Antonio, TX and his wife, Maurissa; Stephen Perotti of Nampa, ID and his wife, Sue. His eleven grandchildren and four great grandchildren: Michael, Robyn, Nick, William, Joseph, Alex, Sarah, Catherine, Stephanie, Hannah, Sean, Kylie, Shawn, Reese, and Riley adored him and miss him greatly.

For the past eighteen months, Richard and Joan have been in the loving hands of Victoria and Robert who have taken wonderful care of them. All of our lives have been blessed by this family which includes their children, Robbie and Isabella. Mt. Rainier Christian Church was his second home for over 40 years. He was a faithful servant and never tired from his commitment to the Lord, the people, and the church itself. He served as Elder and Chairman of the Board for many years, and was proud to do so. He leaves behind very loyal friends and family.

Those who loved him are invited to gather from 4-6pm on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at Arehart-Echols Funeral Home in La Plata, MD with a Christian service following at 6pm. Burial will take place later in Ottawa, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial contributions to Mt. Rainier Christian Church, 33rd & Bunker Hill Rd., Mt. Rainier, MD 20712.

Arrangements provided by Arehart-Echols Funeral Home.