Jack D. Whitworth, 79, of Valparaiso passed away Friday, August 9, 2024. He was born July 9, 1945, in Dyer County, Tennessee to Harry Glenn & Iva Mae (Butler) Whitworth and graduated from Merrillville High School in 1963. Jack made his career as a professional truck driver by starting J. D. Whitworth Trucking, transitioning to Umthun Trucking, then spent 19 years with Graycor to end his career. To be generous we might say that Jack was a collector of memorabilia, particularly tractors of every description, but mostly Farmall and John Deere. He was a “car fanatic” with appreciation for nearly every make and model released during the prime of his life. His words of advice to Dottie of “don’t dilly dally” should only be interpreted that he couldn’t stand to be away from her for very long. But it will be his constant reminder to all family members upon departures to “Be safe” that will linger in their ears.
On July 6, 1990 he married Dorothy Huber who survives along with children; Kim Whitworth of Raytown, Missouri, Mike (Robin) Whitworth of Portage, Vicki (Mark) Breitzke of Chesterton, Suzanne (Brian) Shirley of Dodge City, Kansas & Paula Rosenbaum of Wanatah, 15 grandchildren which includes Hailie & Taylor Whitworth, 29 great-grandchildren, and his siblings; Bob (Claudia) Whitworth, Dan Whitworth, Paul (Sam) Whitworth & Maggie (Ben) Kingery. He was preceded in death by his parents, great-grandson, Noah Breitzke and son-in-law, Doug Rosenbaum.
A visitation will be held Friday, August 16th from 5 – 7 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with memorial service beginning at 7:00 pm, with his grandson, Shane Breitzke officiating.
GUESTBOOK
We are so sorry for your family’s loss & you will be dearly missed! -Rockey & Cassie
Uncle Jack will be greatly missed. Praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time. We love you!! -Ron & Lori Kuehl
Sorry for your loss. Dottie if you need to talk, give me a call. I have been where you are. Hugs and kisses, -Marcia Weimer
I was shocked and saddened by this! My heart breaks for Dorthy! Many condolences, hugs, and lots of love being sent from our family (Shawver’s) to yours! Y’all were truly good to me and my sister always!! Jack will be so missed! -Jennifer Shawver-Williams
Grandpa Jack was a special man and we were all so blessed to know him. Praying for comfort during this time. We love you all so much. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalms 34:18 NIV. -Levi and Miranda Shirley
I am so sorry to hear about Jack. He was a great guy and he was a good friend to my brother Richard. My sympathy to the family. -Carol Hendrix
My heart is broken to hear of Jack's passing. I can still remember Cousin Jack watching us younger kids down home in Tennessee. I will miss one of my favorite cousins. I'll see you again on the other side. -Sandra McKee-Warnemuende
I was so shocked to hear of Jacks passing. I had just talked to him a couple of months ago remembering when he had my wedding reception in his garage that was 53 years ago. So many fond memories of him he was like the brother I never had and will always remember babysitting for Kim and Michael when i was in high school. Hope all of your memories of the two of you together keep him alive in your heart as it will in mine. -Kathy Engels
We have all lost one of the greatest men I've ever known! Grandpa Jack was available to anyone who needed him, with arms wide open!! He played a significant role in our lives as a grandpa figure to Kate when she and Hailie were inseparable, for years. I can't count the number of times we have sat around just talking, or coming up with some sort of plan for our kids! Too many memories to ever put on paper, but will forever be remembered! Sending all of our love and sympathy to his family and friends. Jack, we love you! Give my mom a hug for me. I know she was there to welcome you to your perfect paradise. -Angie Andrews
