Roger Whitaker, a former standout athlete from Perry High School, passed away at the age of 78 on July 23, 2025. He spent over 60 years with his wife and had two children.
His wife, Virginia “Ginger” Kirkton; two sons, Ryan Whitaker and Lance Whitaker; four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren survive him.
Roger G. Whitaker was born on January 12, 1947, in Fishhook, Illinois.
He was a man whose warmth and humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Moreover, he was known for his infectious laughter and witty sarcasm.
Roger had a way of keeping smiles on the faces of those around him, even in the toughest of times. He always gave his best and lifted others along the way.
He was a proud alumnus of Perry High School and was an active student who enjoyed playing basketball and baseball. His competitive spirit and teamwork on the court and field reflected his approach to life.
After high school, Roger answered the call of duty, serving honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His dedication to his country was a commitment to something greater than himself.
Following his military service, he built a career with the U.S. Postal Service, where he worked diligently until his retirement.
Roger Whitaker’s Unexpected Passing Saddened The Whole Community
Roger Whitaker was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and proud veteran. His whole community mourned the untimely passing in July 2025.
He lived a life full of love, adventure, and deep connections with those around him.
Roger was born to Lodelle and Norma Lee Whitaker and grew up with a passion for the outdoors. His social media posts show the love he had for nature throughout his life.
On December 19, 1964, he married the love of his life, Virginia “Ginger” Kirkton, and together they built a beautiful family throughout their 60-year marriage.
He found his greatest joy in spending time with his loved ones. He had two sons, Ryan Whitaker and Lance Whitaker.
Lance graduated from Hannibal–LaGrange College in 2002 and works at First State Insurance Agency. Meanwhile, Ryan married Bobbie Whitaker, a renal care associate at Caterpillar, on September 18, 2015.
I’m going to miss this man so much. Words can’t begin to express what a great man he was. He loved his wife and kids fiercely and was the absolute best father in-law a girl could ask for. It’s been an absolute honor to be apart of his life. Thank you Roger Whitaker for all the love, smiles, jokes and laughter over the years. We are all going to miss you more than you will ever know. I love you dad.
Bobbie Whitaker
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Lodelle and Norma Lee Whitaker; his grandparents, Andy and Nora Whitaker; his brother, Bobby Whitaker; and his mother-in-law, C.L. Kirkton.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion.
The Whitaker family will hold Roger’s visitation from 9:00 to 11:00 AM on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Hansen-Spear Funeral Home in Quincy, Illinois. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, officiated by Rev. Steve Disseler.
Roger will be laid to rest at Quincy Memorial Park with full military honors, conducted by the Payson VFW and the United States Army Funeral Honors Detail, in recognition of his service to his country.
Roger Whitaker’s kindness, warmth, and love for life will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Rest In Peace.
