Richard E. Whitman, 90, of Centre Hall, died Thursday, January 14, 2016, at Mount Nittany Medical Center at State College.

He was born in Potter Township, a son of the late Ben and Francis Wagner Whitman.

On August 4, 1945, at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia, he married Beulah Louise Bradford Whitman who preceded him in death June 27, 2006.

He was valedictorian of his graduating class at Centre Hall Potter High School, and went to earn an Associate degree in Engineering from Penn State University. He worked as an engineer for West Penn Power most of his working life.

He entered the U. S. Army Air Corps, during World War II, serving as a Bombardier. After the war he switched to the Air Force Reserves serving a total of twenty years and earning the rank of Major.

His memberships included Trinity United Church of Christ in Centre Hall, where he served as a Deacon; a First Class Charter Member of the American Legion Post 779, and the oldest living member, a former member of Old Fort Lodge of the Free and Accepted Masons #537 in Centre Hall. He loved turkey hunting and fishing.

Surviving Richard are two sons; Kim Bradford Whitman (Beverly) of Elizabethtown and Richard A. (Petey) Whitman (Kay) of Centre Hall; four grandchildren, Devin S. Whitman (Tracey), Richard P. Whitman (Michele), Alissa Whitman Martin (Gregory), Kyle B. Whitman; five great grandchildren, Erin, Lizzie, Keira and Tara Whitman and Sammy and Brandt; two sisters in law, Miriam Whitman of Florida, and Barbara Whitman of Centre Hall.

In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. Whitman was preceded in death by a grandson Adam.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2016, at 1:00 p. m. at the Reformed and Lutheran Cemetery West Church St. Centre Hall with the Reverend Russell Sauerwein officiating. Military honors will be provided by members of American Legion Post 779.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Pets Come First 2451 General Potter Highway, Centre Hall, PA 16828

An on line guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com