James Whitman

James E. “Jim” Whitman, 83, of New Philadelphia, died early Saturday, April 14, 2018, in Amberwood Manor at New Philadelphia following a period of declining health.

Born on March 4, 1935 at Dennison, Ohio, Jim was a son of the late Robert W. Whitman and Neva (Jones) Neighbors.

Jim honorably served his country as a member of the United States Navy during the Korean War. During his service, he was stationed aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, USS Coral Sea and the USS Midway. He was awarded with the Navy Occupation Service Medal, China Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

Upon his discharge, Jim remained on the Western Shore having lived in San Diego and Seattle, Washington prior to relocating back to the Tuscarawas Valley. Jim spent his professional career as a truck driver for many firms prior to his retirement as a driver for the Kimble Company.

He enjoyed fishing, bowling, playing cards and yard work. He also enjoyed following the Cleveland Indians and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities. Jim also was a lifetime member of the Carl C. Stoller Post 1445 New Philadelphia VFW and a former member of the New Philadelphia Eagles and Moose.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 38 years, the former Alice Everhart, whom he married on May 24, 1980; children, Joyce Axlen of Seattle, Janet Whitman of Cincinnati, Shelley Huff of New Philadelphia, Russell “Butch” (Barb) Hawk of North Carolina, and Renee (Ed) Daberko of New Philadelphia; grandchildren, Leann (James) Spokas, Patrick Axlen, Michelle Crockett, Brandon Huff, Ashley Huff, Eric (Angel) Hawk, Adam Hawk, Chad Daberko and Sarah Iannacci; four great-granddaughters, Corrina, Delaney, Autumn and Mia; three sisters, Kate, Sheila, and Neva as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a son, Jeffrey Whitman, two sisters, Betty and Judith; and two brothers, Robert “Bob”, and Ronnie; and a son-in-law, Ron Huff.

The family will greet guests on Thursday, April 19, 2018 in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia from Noon-2 PM. Pastor Brian Flood will lead a service in the funeral home’s chapel at 2 PM. Burial, with military honors will follow in the Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia. Following services, a meal and fellowship will take place in the Geib Family Center, adjacent to the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be directed to Community Hospice at 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.