Jessica Whittaker (nee Allen),85, of LaPorte, passed away February 25, 2010 following a brief illness.
Jessica was born on November 30, 1924 to Florence O'Neill Allen and Richard Allen in Bolton, England. She grew up during the years before and during World War II and in spite of the great turmoil of that time learned to love life through writing poetry, dancing and singing. She and her fiancé, Ted Whittaker, immigrated to the United States and were married in Laporte at St.Paul's Episcopal Church by the Reverend Eric Pearson on November 17, 1951. They raised their family in Laporte where she became active in her children's education by becoming president of the Maple School PTA. She was also one of the earliest environmental activists and spoke out in support of clean air in LaPorte. As her children grew she went to work, first at Hilbish Drug and Danner's stores and eventually at the Whirlpool Corporation. She was also a long time member of the St. Paul's church choir.
She is survived by her two sons, Professor Edward A Whittaker of Hoboken, NJ and Dr. Michael H. Whittaker of Germantown, WI, her sister Yvonne Gallagher of LaPorte, her granddaughters, Justine, Emma, Katie Beth, Arrianne, and Lauren and grandson Michael. Her husband Ted and brother Richard preceded her in death.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at St. Pauls Episcopal Church with Rev. Tony Clavier officiating.
There will be a time of visitation on Friday, March 5, 2010 from 3-7:30 PM at Cutler Funeral Home, LaPorte, IN. and on Saturday at the church from 9:30-10:30 am. Interment will follow in the Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, IN.
Contributions may be made to the St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1000 Michigan Ave, LaPorte, IN 46350.
Friends may sign an online register book at www.cutlerfuneral.com.