Elbert Glenn “Spud” Whitman, 88, of Paradise, Kansas, passed away Sunday, March 18, 2012, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.

Spud Whitman was born February 23, 1924, to Alexander and Mary (Patton) Whitman.  He grew up in rural Russell County and joined the United States Navy in March of 1943.  Spud met the love of his life Donna Beth Luder at a country dance while home on leave, on May 5, 1945.  Spud continued to serve as an anti-aircraft gunner as part of a Navy crew placed on Merchant Marine ships for the remainder of World War II. After returning home after the war, Spud was united in marriage to Beth on December 21, 1946.  This union was blessed with four children; Denny, Sandy, Patty and Fred.  Spud worked as an oilfield pumper.  Later, because of his love for being on the water he took a job as a tanker man on the Mississippi River boats.  “Papo” as he was known by the family, liked to tease and have fun with all, he especially loved the “little ones”.  His sense of humor and his love of horses were precious to all who knew him.  Elbert Glenn “Spud” Whitman died in the arms of his wife and leaves a loving family with countless cherished memories and stories.

Spud is survived by his wife Beth of the home; son Denny Whitman and wife Sheila of Belle Fourche, South Dakota; daughters Sandy Mead and husband Allen of Kismet, Kansas, and Patty Lund and husband Rick of Lincoln, Kansas; son Fred Whitman and wife Kristi of Paradise, Kansas.  His greatest legacy lives on in his twelve grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Charly, Freddy, Opal, Florence and Henry.

A Celebration of Spuds life will be held at 11 A.M. on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at the Paradise United Methodist Church in Paradise, Kansas, with Pastor Sharon Thomas officiating.  Burial will follow at the Mt. Herman Cemetery in rural Paradise.  Military rites will be conducted by the V.F.W. Post #6240 Honor Guard.  Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M on Wednesday, March 21, 2012, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas with family greeting guest from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Wednesday evening March 21st at the mortuary.  Memorials may be given to the Paradise United Methodist Church or to the Disabled American Vets and can be sent in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.