Thomas C. Whitaker

Tom Whitaker passed away at home in the early morning of November 14, 2024 with his wife, Peg, and son, Dan, by his side. He was in hospice care for two weeks leading up to his passing, during which he was visited and cared for by many family members and friends.

Tom was born on February 27, 1946, in St. Paul, Minnesota and moved to Snoqualmie, Washington, at the age of three. He attended St. Edward's Seminary and St. Thomas College before earning a master’s degree in psychology from Central Washington University. Throughout his career, Tom worked as a teacher, CYO facilities manager, CYO camp director, counseling psychologist, and coach.

Tom was married to Peg for 52 years and was a devoted father to two sons, Ryan and Dan. He had a deep passion for sports and competition, and was an accomplished football and basketball player, as well as a talented golfer. He shot in the 60s numerous times and won the Monte Carlo Day at Ellensburg Golf Club. His other interests included simple living, hiking, in-depth research, plowing snow, cutting firewood, and hard work. Together with Peg, he built two houses and a cabin.

Tom was a trusted source of guidance for many, encouraging those around him to “think outside the box,” he was a master at it. He was empathetic, caring, stubborn, persistent, calm, and wise—a wonderful husband and father, as good as any could ask for. We miss you, Dad, and we love you.

Tom is preceded in death by his father, John; mother, Mary; brother, John; sister-in-law, Maggie; and nephew, Ethan. He is survived by his wife, Peg; sons, Ryan (Hilary) and Dan (Kelly); grandson, Rowdy; granddaughter, Mae; brothers Bill, Harry, Richard, and Bob; sisters Ann, Maryalice, Caroline, Elizabeth, and Jane; as well as many nieces and nephews.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to family and friends for all their help and support during this time. We also thank Jay and the Hospice team for their guidance and care. Donations to KVH Hospice are welcome and can be made through the KVH Foundation.

Tom’s celebration of life will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at The Ridge Restaurant and Bar in Ellensburg.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Ellensburg. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.johnston-williams.com