David Edward Whitaker

David Edward Whitaker, 71, of Brentwood, Pennsylvania passed into Heaven Jan. 1, 2023.

Born April 2, 1951, in Steubenville, Ohio, to the late John and Velma Whitaker. He is the beloved father to Adam David (Chelsey) and Erik David (Megan) Whitaker and brother to Janice Ward and John Whitaker.

A veteran of both the United States Army and United States Coast Guard, he served 25 total years beginning as a paratrooper with the 82^nd Airborne Division in support of the Vietnam Conflict followed by numerous dutiful years across multiple commands within the Coast Guard while earning awards and commendations for both service and valor.

A devoted father and grandfather, David’s selflessness to his family was displayed through multiple ways. Whether it be his eagerness to assist with a new home improvement project (of which there were many) or desire to outfit a grandchild (or child) with a new toy, sports equipment, jewelry, or power tool, David sought to spoil his family whenever possible and, even more, spend time with them. An outdoorsman earlier in life, he enjoyed target and trap shooting, especially when it was with his sons. Additionally, he was an auto enthusiast who enjoyed tinkering on his vehicles and more specifically, cleaning and shining them as often as possible.

David is survived by his two sons, Adam David (Chelsey) Whitaker and Erik David (Megan) Whitaker along with seven grandchildren, Sawyer, Henry, Scarlett, Jensen, Archer, August, and Collette as well as two (furry) grandchildren Kobe and Ruby; sister Janice Ward; and nieces Karen (Steve) Olesky, and great niece, Janna; and Melissa (Todd) Scott, and great nephew Tyler. He is preceded in death by his brother John, whom he never had a chance to meet and was looking forward to doing so in death.

A Mass of Christian Burial is set to held on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Holy Child Church, 212 Station St, Bridgeville, PA 15017. Inurnment will follow at 1:00 PM at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Rd, Bridgeville, PA 15017. Immediately following the burial, a celebration of life will occur at 2:00 PM at VFW Post 764, 460 Valley Brook Road, McMurray PA 15317.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh.