Edward James Whittier

Edward James Whittier
August 12, 1928 - December 18, 2011

Edward James (Jim) Whittier was born Aug. 12, 1928, in Superior, Wisconsin, to parents Edward Joseph and Anna Marie Whittier. Jim was the youngest of three, with two older sisters, Margaret Jordan of Superior, WI and Jean Waite of Solano Beach, CA. Jim is survived by his wife of 52 years Diane Whittier, two children, son Michael Whittier and wife Marie of Albany, OR; daughter Mary Schenker of Freeport, ME and two granddaughters Taylor and Lauren Schenker of Freeport, ME.

Jim got his BS degree from University of Wisconsin - Superior, where he was chosen one of the University’s Top 100 Outstanding Alumni. Jim was captain of the basketball team, was all conference both junior and senior years, and was sworn into the University of Wisconsin Sports Hall of Fame where he still holds multiple free throw records.

Jim served in the US Army between World War II and the Korean War primarily in the 82nd Airborne and the First Army where he attained the rank of Sergeant.

Jim worked at Pacific Mutual Life Insurance (Pacific Life) for over 40 years and retired as Executive Vice President. He was a founding member of Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO). Other board memberships included insurance, heart foundation, hospital and church.

Jim was known for a witty sense of humor, and the ability to tell a joke like no other. In his retirement he and wife Diane, residents of Corona del Mar for over 40 years, enjoyed being active members at St. Andrews Church, playing golf and traveling extensively.

Jim was most proud of his family and friendships. He was steadfast to all in time of need, outstanding in the grace of everyday living, and always had a rhyme or joke for the moment. He was humble and would like to be remembered as a man who was loving, honest, dependable, and always there if you needed a helping hand. He strove to be a good citizen of the world where that doesn’t seem to count as much as it should. He was a well loved, appreciated man, who touched many with his kindness. He will be greatly missed.

Services will be held January 6, 2012, at 11:00 am at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 600 St. Andrew’s Road, Newport Beach, CA 92663-5323 with a lunch reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Andrew’s Mission Outreach Program or Music Department would be appreciated.