Bernard “Bernie” D. Whitney Jr. 70, a long time resident of Keene died on Sunday, July 26, 2015. He passed peacefully in the comfort of his home with his family near after a period of declining health.
Bernard was born the son of the late Alberta M. (Thibodeau) and Bernard D. Whitney Sr. on August 18, 1944 in Lebanon, NH. he was educated in Keene and graduated from Keene High School class of 1963.
On July 4, 1980 he exchanged vows with Dianne L. Cooper. They were married in Hudson, NH. in a simple service with close family and friends in attendance. They have been married for thirty five years.
Bernie was employed by the New England Telephone Co. where he worked as an Outside Plant Technician. Bernie retired after twenty nine years of service to enjoy retirement in 1997 with his family.
He has many interests in life. Bernie enjoyed classic and model cars. He was a NASCAR and race car enthusiast. During his life time he had bought, sold and registered over 186 cars, motorcycles and vans. Recently time was spent riding his 2005 Harley Davidson Road King, reminiscing fond memories of attending numerous trips to Daytona Bike week, the ride to the 100th. Anniversary of Harley Davidson in Milwaukee, WI. and many other trips. One of his favorite adventures was driving at the Richard Petty Experience at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 2006. This is where he drove a stock car against the clock with no instructor with him. Bernie was a regular at the 3 o’clock Dunkin Donut Coffee Crowd where he was always happy to see friends.
Mr. Whitney is survived by his wife Dianne L. Whitney of Keene. His three sons; Bruce Crowell of Richmond, Bernie D. Whitney III and Brett D. Whitney of Keene. His sister, Bette Jean Whitney of Keene. Four grandchildren; Dallas, Wyatt, McKena and Madilyn in addition to cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bernie is pre-deceased by his sister, Mary Lou Switzer who passed in March, 2015.
A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2015 at 2pm. in the Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel. Flowers will gladly be accepted. However the family would prefer donations be made in memory of Bernard D. Whitney Jr. to: Keene Community Kitchen, 37 Mechanic St. Keene, NH. 03431 or to: Keene salvation Army, 15 Roxbury Plaza, Keene, NH. 03431. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
