Tributes

Donald Gene Whitaker was born on September 25, 1941, and left this earth peacefully on April 10, 2026. Don spent his entire life in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, building not just businesses, but friendships, family, and a reputation that meant something. Don worked hard to provide for his family, and he played harder—he believed in enjoying life. Every business venture was a family affair, even if that meant trucking across the country with his wife or grandkids. There was always an adventure to be had. Sons Ross and Gene worked side by side with Don, and before long, anyone who came by usually became family too. Folks often said the Whitaker boys would give the shirt off their backs to help someone in need. Weekends were for grandkids and family, where Don cooked for everyone. Each grandkid had a special place in his heart—and a nickname to match. Those weekends were filled with laughter, stories, games, and memories that will be told for years to come. Don always had a hobby—lake trips, airplanes, racing, and working on anything he could take apart and put back together. Most of all, he loved sitting around telling stories. Whether it was a tale from years gone by, or a story that grew better with every telling—and let’s not talk about the jokes—if you were nearby, chances were you’d hear one. Don leaves behind his legacy: the love of his grandkids, greatgrandkids, and greatgreat-grandson. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Donna June Whitaker; his son, Donald Gene Whitaker Jr.; his parents, Pearl Harwood, Woody Harwood, and A.V. Whitaker; his brother, Ed Harwood; and his grandchildren Rusty Whitaker, Dustin Whitaker, Brittany Whitaker, and Colby Whitaker. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Laquieta Whitaker; his son, Ross Whitaker of Watonga; his daughter, Beth Perry of Wynnewood and Tonya Combes of Wynnewood; his sisters, June and husband, Richard Mize of Mill Creek and Linda and husband, Jack Cook; as well as numerous grandchildren April (Scooter) and husband, Shane Wilson, Corie Perry (Tooter), Glenna (Duke) and Jeffery Dodson, Shelby Burch, Amanda Goodin, Aaron Kershenr, Austin Kershenr, Anthony Kershenr, Angela Kershenr, Lynn (Snuffy) and husband, Bobby Garcia, Kristen Whitaker (Tuffy), and Dylan Anderson (Boo). He also leaves behind many greatgrandchildren: Caitlin Perry, Casidy Wilson, Wyatt Wilson, Tripp Dodson, Kayden Oakley, Taegan Oakley, Braylynn Garcia, Tripp Garcia, Truett Garcia, and Emilynn Garcia, his great-great-grandson, Enzo, and all his nieces and nephews. In honoring Don’s last wishes, there will not be a service. He wanted his family together one last time, sharing stories and food like the “old” days. He will be laid to rest with his daughter, Donna. Those who remember Don will always remember his playful spirit, his love of family, and, in true Don fashion, his signature farewell: “ByeCycle.”

Tributes

Donald Gene Whitaker

September 25, 1941 - April 10, 2026