Joan Whittaker

Hancock:  Joan C. Whittaker, 73, of Hancock, passed away at her home on Friday, February 12, 2016 following a brief illness.

     She was born in Laurium on August 20, 1942 to the late John W. and Mary (Staudohar) Whittaker. She graduated from Calumet High School and later from LaSalle University with an associates degree. She enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1961, retiring after 20 years of service in 1981 as a Master Sergeant. During her career in the Army, Joan received many awards and various medals such as Meritorious Service Medal, Gold Recruiter Badge with 2 Sapphire Stars, Good Conduct Medal, and Sharpshooter Badge among many others.  She worked at The Whistle Stop Gift Shop in Florida, and then for WalMart in Florida and Houghton. She had lived in many areas before moving to her home in Hancock.

     Joan was an avid sports fan, especially the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions.

     Besides her parents, she was also preceded in death by a brother, James; brother-in-law, Clarence DeRoche; nephew Robert DeRoche; step-dad Emil Jakovich; and her special friend, Ruth Patch Montgomery.

     She is survived by her twin sister, Jean DeRoche (Mike Goudge) of Hancock and Janet Whittaker of Pittsburg, California; nieces Michelle DeRoche and children Brandon, Kayla, Ashley, and Cameron of Lake Linden, and Nicole (Doug) Hebner of Dollar Bay; and a nephew Barney DeRoche and children Danielle and Christopher of Sterling Heights; an aunt, Florence Groen of Charlotte, NC; her dog, Spanky; and special friend Jackie Killian of Lake Linden.

       At the request of the deceased, there will be no visitation or services. Cremation will take place.

       The O'Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements. To leave online condolences, please go to www.oneilldennisfh.com.

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