The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

Howard Whipple finished his earthly journey on July 3, 2014, at the age of 94. He was born in Sprague, WA on September 29, 1919, the eldest son of Daniel and Alma Whipple. A railroad family, they moved often, usually living in the family quarters above the depots. Howard graduated from Lind (WA) High School in 1937, and took courses at Kinman Business School. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became an agent-telegrapher with the Northern Pacific Railroad. He joined the navy in 1944 and trained as a radioman, completing his duty in 1946, after serving on the USS Burleigh. Howard returned to the railroad, where he manned depots in Walla Walla, Waitsburg and Dayton.

A mutual friend introduced Howard to Marian Pickel in 1949 and on December 28, 1950, they were married in Walla Walla. The couple moved to Waitsburg within a short time, and in November 1952 daughter Ann joined the family. A second daughter, Jean, was born in June of 1955.

Howard became depot agent in Dayton early in 1960, and he served there until the station closed in the late 1970’s. He retired a year later.

Retirement left Howard and Marian with more opportunities to pursue camping trips in their VW bus. A favorite destination was the Southern Oregon coast. Howard was good at woodworking, and greatly enjoyed sharing projects with his young grandson. He was always looking for ways to “invent” improvements in the home. He was an avid reader, especially of Louis L’Amour westerns, along with scientific and self-improvement magazines. In earlier years, Howard liked scouring the local “dumps” for good “finds.” Second-hand stores were favorite haunts as well.

He was a member of the Dayton United Methodist Church for over 50 years, serving in several capacities within the church. He had a particular concern for the well-being of widows and the elderly, and aided them in whatever ways he could. Howard was also a member of the Dayton Kiwanis Club for 53 years, faithfully helping with the hamburger booth and Turkey Bingo. Prior to their move to Dayton, Howard was a member of the Waitsburg Presbyterian Church and Commercial Club.

Howard is survived by Marian, his wife of 53 years; daughters Ann (Larry) Sehmel and Jean; two brothers, Lloyd and Dick; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A sister, Yvonne Dean, preceded him in death.

Services will be held at a later time. Memorials to Dayton United Methodist Church (110 S. 3rd St., Dayton WA 99328).