Franklin M. Whitman

Longtime Bainbridge Island resident, Franklin Mark Whitman, passed on Sunday, August 4th at the age of 78 surrounded by his family after a 13 year battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

Frank was born on February 23rd, 1941 to Mark and Phyllis Whitman in Puyallup, WA.Frank attended the University of Washington where he was a member of the Beta Theta Phi fraternity and transferred later to Los Angeles School of Design. He was a pilot in the USAF and served in the National Guard.

Frank met his wife, Michele, of 51 years, in 1960 at the University of Washington. They married on January 17th, 1968 and resided in Seattle prior to moving to Bainbridge Island in 1977. Frank worked as a Sr. Project Manager for King County Metro for over 25 years. He enjoyed spending time with his family on summer camping trips and winter skiing
adventures. Frank designed a car top carrier fondly referred to as "Pop-Tart" that provided a tented quarters while camping and ski storage while headed to the slopes. Frank's creativity and love of design led to a US patent for a printer in the early 70's. Frank had many musical talents, he sang in barbershop quartets during his high school and college years, played the piano by ear, as well as the guitar and ukulele. He would often strum a tune while enjoying the sunset on the front porch.

Frank will be lovingly remembered by his wife Michele, son Frank Whitman II, daughters Kim (Ed Lilly) and Kristine (Dean Barker) and his seven grandchildren, Ed, Henry and George Lilly, Brandon, Adam, Emily and Sarah Barker, brother Ralph Whitman (Janice) and sister Laurie Beth Leaverton (Karl).

A Celebration of Life for Frank will be held at a later date. Donations can be made in honor of Frank to the Alzheimer's Association http://act.alz.org/goto/FMW

Arrangements are entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.