Whitaker, Richard Hansen's Obituary
Richard Hansen Whitaker, 79, The Villages, Florida passed away on June 19, 2025, at UF Health Leesburg Hospital. Richard was born on May 29, 1946, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to his parents Thomas Whitaker and Barbara (Hansen) Whitaker.
Rick served proudly in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He had a passion for sailing and loved spending time on the water. He retired as a Maintenance Manager from Lacks Enterprises in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Three years ago, Rick and his beloved wife of 51 years, Marykay, traded Michigan winters for Florida sunshine and joined the vibrant community of The Villages. He was a man of faith and a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Wildwood, Florida.
Rick is survived by his wife Marykay; his daughter Lisa Gerke of Grand Rapids, MI; his son Ryan Whitaker and wife Chris of Plant City, FL; his sister Cathy Biela and husband David of North Carolina; his five grandchildren—Jacob, Kaley, Tyler, Brayden, and Landen; two great-grandchildren, Peyton and Lily; two nieces, Jeniffer and Christine. He will be remembered for his quick wit, generosity, strength and courage.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Wildwood, Florida at: https://sumtercatholic.org/donate/faith-direct/ or The Pregnancy Crisis Resource Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan at: https://helppregnancy.org.
A Mass of the Resurrection will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11:00AM at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Wildwood, Florida.
Arrangements are entrusted to Banks/Page-Theus Funerals and Cremations, Wildwood. Online condolences may be shared at https://www.bankspagetheus.com.
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