James "Fred" Whitten, Jr.

James F. "Fred" Whitten, Jr. 82, passed away February 13, 2018. Born on September 21, 1935 in Memphis, TN to the late Fred Sr. and Mary Clara (Sparks) Whitten, he received his education in the Memphis schools and an Engineering degree from The University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1958. Fred was employed with Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. in the tire factories in Illinois and Akron and the inner tube plant in Arkansas. He worked for the Akron Defense Products and when it was to become part of a rival, Physics International, he followed. Fred often remarked about the dedication and talent displayed by his fellow workers in the rubber factories. Fred retired in 1992 and exchanges all of the Tech Manuals for the books he loved to read, the chores around the house, his outside work replacement, gardening which he loved. He loved helping his granddaughters with homework, cooking, canning, along with assisting his wife Bleakia, an educator in the Massillon Schools. He enjoyed is life in retirement and was a joy to his family and neighbors.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by son, Michael. Fred is survived by the "Light of his Life", Bleakia, his wife of 59 years; son, Jim III (Debra); daughter-in-law, Lisa; grandchildren Brittany, Holly, Sarah, Susie and four great-grandchildren.

Fred was a wonderful person, father, and most of all the most thoughtful, kindest husband a woman could even dream of. He exceeded my dream of a wonderful prince. He made my life overall blessed and heaven on earth. There were painful moments (loss of son) but he was always what inspired one to keep going. He was God's gift to me and I am so grateful and blessed to have 82 years in a beautiful world full of nature's wonders and a wonderful partner. Hope our children will be able to enjoy nature as must as we did and take care of the environment.

Our thanks go out to Hospice Visiting Nurses, Cleveland Clinic, Akron General Hospital and Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home, who have already carried out previous arrangements. Our special thanks to dear friends and special neighbors who helped in every way from transporting, to grocery shopping, trips to doctors in Cleveland at midnight at times, and in every way we needed them with moral support and encouragement.

Per his wishes cremation has taken place. No services will be held.

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