William F. Whilden, age 85, of Catawissa, died on Friday morning, March 14, 2014 at his home surrounded by his family and under the care of Columbia Montour Home Hospice.
William was born on Monday, July 16, 1928 in Philadelphia, a son of the late Elmer and Margarite (Ryan) Whilden. Throughout his younger years, William attended the West Catholic High School in Philadelphia. Shortly after high school, William enlisted with the United States Navy where he served his country faithfully during World War II. William dedicated over twenty-six years to the armed forces while serving two years in the Navy, twenty years in the Coast Guard and four years in the Reserves. In addition to World War II, William also served during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge. After retiring from the military, William was employed as a Refrigeration Technician for the former Hanover Co., of Bloomsburg. Most recently, he was employed by American Home Foods in Milton until his official retirement in 1991. He was a member of the Catawissa American Legion, Post #541. William cherished the time he spent with family and also his dog "Mugsey".
On February 6, 2003, William was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, the late Elizabeth M. (Kane) Whilden. He was also preceded by three brothers: Charles Whilden, James Whilden and Gerald Whilden.
Survivors include six children: Theresa Pirrone of Catawissa; Joan Miller and husband, Mike, of Millville; Mary Brink and husband, Steve, of Bloomsburg; Regina Terry and husband, Alan, of Catawissa; William E. Whilden and wife, Bethann, of Catawissa; and Brenda McCreary and husband, Craig, of Northumberland; ten grandchildren: Denise Fetterman, Cassie Gum, Jackie Kern, Valerie Miller, Ryann Cymbala, Michael Miller, Bryan Terry, Andrea Terry, Eric Pirrone and Brett McCreary; two great-grandchildren: Derek Hernandez and Britton Gum; and also a brother: Michael R. Whilden of Pencola, FL.
At the request of the deceased, all viewings and funeral will be held privately. William will be laid to rest beside his late wife in Lime Ridge. The Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg is honored to be serving the Whilden family.
Memorial contributions in William's name are suggested to the Animal Resource Center, c/o Linda Bird, 301A Boone Rd., Bloomsburg, PA 17815