William E Whitten

Bill Whitten is a friend of mine. Our friendship began in elementary school formed by common interests. As youngsters, we enjoyed the outdoors, sports and involvement in our local Lutheran church. When the weather was nice, I would ride my bicycle down Tuscarawas Road to the Whitten's house where we would play basketball in the driveway, football in the backyard or just hang out doing what young boys do. Occasionally, we would ride our bikes over and meet up with the Barclay Hill boys. One memory which will be with me forever, is of our baseball games over at the field on Barclay Hill Road. We all had the names of our favorite baseball players, and played each game with the same intensity of our heroes. Those were fun times. I remember birthday parties and going to the Crucible Country Club to swim in the pool and check out girls. We were young boys living lives that most people today would envy. As we grew older, Bill and my paths went in different directions. It was a natural thing. As we pursued our own interests, those interests drew us around different people and focused more of our attention on those pursuits. When I would have the chance to talk with Bill we enjoyed reminiscing, and always promised each other we would get together again. Sadly, our pursuits, usually take us to places far away from home, from family, and from friends. That's when those old friendships just simply fade away. I was saddened to hear of Bill's passing and of his fight with cancer. My faith, in my God, gives me hope that one day when I walk onto that heavenly ball field I'm going to see Bill and he will walk over to me and announce to all, Now we have a center fielder, let's play ball. Someday, soon, my friend. To the entire Whitten family, I express my condolences and heart-felt saddness. Dennis Sell

My condolences to Bill's family, I knew "Whimpy" during my High School years. he was sometimes shy, and fun to hang out with. I recall hanging out at Beaver Park across from the courthouse and at the pavilion down at the Beaver Pool. He always had a smile and free spirit personality. May your memories heal your hearts. God Bless

I knew Bill most of my teens & 20's. He even lived at my Mother's house for a time. As u already know,I'm sure, ur Dad was a good person. I Never heard him say anything bad about anyone. We had many good times. And he had a great smile. Always hoped I'd get to see him again. Although that isn't the case (right now) I will Never forget 'Wimpie'