Obituary of William Rodney Clare Whitmell

Whitmell, William Rodney Clare Born May 10, 1939 in the Town of Port Loring Ontario. He was the second son born to Ruby and Victor Whitmell. Clare was one of a family of five boys and one girl. Brothers, Jim Whitmell (Paris ON), Jerry Whitmell (deceased) , Bud Whitmell (Port Loring), Joey Whitmell (Port Loring), and a sister Shelley Cindy Payne (deceased). Clare had four children whom he loved very much, Michael Whitmell, Sheila McDonald, Misty Whitmell, and Vicky Whitmell. William was known to the locals as “Clare”. He was a one of a kind and loved by so many. After completion of high shool he ventured out to earn a living. He spent time working at Rogerson’s Sawmill and then on to a career in surveying. Being a tad venturesome, he decided to join the Navy and serve his country. It was during his time in the Navy, that Clare decided to follow in his Father’s footsteps and become a lumber grader. He had to attend school in Memphis to get his certification. It was there he met his first wife (Susie). He spent many years in the lumber industry and then moved on to a totally different field of work. He spent several years working with the mentally challenged at the Orillia Phyc Hospital. Later in life, Clare met his deceased wife Judy Shaw. They had a wonderful life together however it was not for a long time. Clare enjoyed many vacations in the sunny south, with his wife Judy and his sidekick and cousin (Davis Marcoux) and wife Phylis. Clare and Davis had a special bond that few people are lucky enough to have. They knew how to laugh/ have fun and how to enjoy time to the fullest. They never wasted a moment crying over spilt milk. Life was short and they knew how to make the best of it. Clare had a love of sports and he spent many years playing and coaching men’s baseball and hockey.Clare has mentioned over and over his love for his neices and nephews. They were always there when he needed them. He so appreciated the time they spent with him during his illness Peacefully at the Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital on Thursday June 9th, 2016 at the age of 77. Visitation will be held at the Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street E. Orillia on Monday June 13th, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. until time of funeral services in the chapel at 7:00 p.m. Cremation to follow. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca