John Orval Whitaker

passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2009 at the age of 88 at his home in Poulsbo, Washington. He was born on August 28, 1921 to John and Elsie Whitaker in Conrad, Montana. John graduated from Monroe High School in Monroe, Washington. He attended The University of Washington and graduated from the University of Southern California with a dental degree. John served during WWII in the Army Air Corps. He married Florence Adele Montan in Seattle, WA in 1946. He worked in San Pedro, California as a children's dentist for thirty years and retired in 1978. John was the President of the Harbor Dental Society, Southern California Dental Association and the Century Club. He was a member of the American Academy of Pedodontics, American Dental Association, American Society for dentistry for children, American College for Dentists and was a charter member of the Los Angeles Pedodontics Club. He was very active in the San Pedro and Peninsula YMCA. John was a life member of the USC Associates, South Bay Trojan Club, Northwest Trojan Club and received the Fred B. Olds Award for service to USC. He was also a member of the Son's of Norway and the Poulsbo Yacht Club. He is survived by his beloved wife Florence Montan Whitaker of Poulsbo, WA, children; John Whitaker and his wife Syd, Mary Ann Finnecy and her husband Edward, Robert Whitaker and his wife Diana and Nancy Muller and her husband Rodman all residing in California. John also leaves behind his sister Arlene Day of Yakima, WA. There are 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Private family Graveside Services have been held at Mountain View Cemetery in Poulsbo. Memorial contributions can be made to The Hospice of Kitsap County or to a charity of choice.Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home.