DETROIT – Shirley L. Whitaker, 59, died Oct. 22, 2005, at a Waterville hospital, after a long courageous battle with cancer. She was born Nov. 14, 1945, in Brockton Mass., the daughter of Edward S. and Evelyn (Jones) Peterson. Shirley worked in local woolen mills and shoe shops for many years. She was an active member of the Nightdrifters Snowmobile Club in Detroit. Shirley was the founder of the Blue Grass Festival in Detroit and has been and active member for the past seven years. She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Pittsfield. She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Edwin L. Whitaker of Detroit; one son, Mark E. Whitaker of Freedom; two brothers, Edward S. Peterson of Unity, Russell R. Peterson of Dover-Foxcroft; two sisters, Linnea Walker and Jacky Day, both of Detroit; four grandchildren, Justin, Casey, Jared, and Jessica; also several nieces, nephews, and cousins. There are no public visiting hours. Graveside services will be conducted 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, at the Detroit Village Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 34 High St., Newport. To sign an online guest book and to leave written tributes please visit www.philipbrownfuneralhome.com
SHIRLEY L. WHITAKER
