William Ferrin Whitaker Jr.

I am Charlotte (Charlie Blanchard) I knew Bill for many years through The Grapevine Gallery. I was Dan Blanchard sister-in-law and friend of Walter Gray. I am a former classical dancer and have enjoyed how he depicted dancers. I have collect numerous pieces of his work. I have only to look up to my walls and to appreciate the fine artist he was.

Charlotte

We will miss Bill immensely. He was such a kind, friendly, humorous man that saw the good in everyone. He made us all feel better by just being in his presence. He had such a wonderful sense of humor--we will miss him! Love, The Ogletree's

I loved Bill Whitaker's art and his informal, humorous, self-deprecating style of communication. I learned a lot from his web postings and so I wanted to go to Utah to meet him. I just emailed with him and he generously agreed to a time to meet at his studio.

I spent the whole day there as he worked on a painting, demonstrated how he set up his palette, did a life study, and demonstrated his lighting design. He dimmed the lights and the model glowed in skylight pouring down...

My wife and I were with Joseph and Angela Brickey several days ago talking about my former missionary companion and our common friend Bill Whitaker when Angela received a text message that Bill had passed away. We were all stunned.
Bill and I were missionary companions in Essen, Germany, in the heart of the great industrial Ruhr District, during the first weeks of 1963. Somewhere among my things is a picture (slide) I took of Bill at the time.
After our missions, Bill invited me to...

True generosity is found in the acts one does for those who can never repay the gift. Bill was the embodiment of true generosity. Our daughter, Reagan as a 12 year old was awarded a scholarship to attend a week long painting workshop at the Cowboy Hall ofFame and Western Heritage. It was her good fortune that it was with Bill. Before the class, she had no idea that a group of artists existed that loved to paint realistically the same subjects she loved to paint...horses, cowboys and the...

I've always been in awe of his paintings. I was fortunate to meet him and have him share his thoughts and art knowledge. He was so kind and generous and willing to help. I wish I had the chance to learn more. He will be missed. May his family and friends find peace and comfort knowing that they will meet again.

Miss you already Bill.

Knew Bill in Germany when I was with my parents on a building mission. We were recipients of his great talent. We are sorry for your great loss. Marsha Miller Vogrinec