Michael Whitaker

Michael Whitaker, age 72, passed away suddenly on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Michael was truly a family man. He was born on October 26, 1952, in Morganfield, Kentucky, to the late Frederick and Doreen Whitaker. He later moved to Pennsylvania, where he spent most of his life. He attended school in the Upper Chichester School District and played football in high school. He went on to earn his Certification in Construction Blueprint Reading and Estimating from Delaware County Community College. Michael proudly served in the United States Army Reserve as a pastry chef and also worked as a clerk for President Nixon during his active service. After his service, he worked various jobs, including at Sun Ship and Fair Acres, before joining Refresco Beverage (formerly Cott Beverage) in 1991. He stayed there until his retirement in 2020. Michael was a devoted Christian and an active member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, where his grandfather, Deacon Paul Robinson, helped build the original church. He especially enjoyed attending Men’s Bible Study. Growing up in the Twin Oaks section of Upper Chichester, Michael met and later married his high school sweetheart, Myra. Together they were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Heather Anderson and Opal Whitaker. Michael was also a proud grandfather to Heavyn and DaeKwon Anderson and great-grandfather to Royal Anderson and Javonni Wimes. Family meant everything to him — he loved and cared for them deeply, always putting their needs first. Michael enjoyed traveling, attending drag racing events in different states, target shooting at the range, and watching action movies. He was also dedicated to his health journey and could often be seen walking in the community or working out at the YMCA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Doreen Whitaker, and his grandparents, Deacon Paul and Madge Robinson and Frederick and Selma Whitaker. Michael leaves behind to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Myra; daughters, Heather Anderson (Kevin) and Opal Whitaker (Lamar Lane); grandchildren, DaeKwon Anderson and Heavyn Anderson; great-grandchildren, Royal Anderson and Javonni Wimes; brothers, Tracey Whitaker (Carolene), Christopher Whitaker (Carolyn), Paul Whitaker, and Todd Small; sisters, Sharon Whitaker, Michelle Lewis, Jone Posey, and Danielle Whitaker; aunts, Rose Robinson, Jeffery Hynson, and Dot Bowman; great-aunt, Leah Johnson; uncles, Sidney Robinson, William Bowman and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Michael will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his love, kindness, and devotion to his family.

Michael Whitaker

October 26, 1952 - June 21, 2025