Gary Lee Whipple

Gary Lee Whipple, 68, of Fogelsville, died Tuesday morning at the Regional Hospital of Scranton.

Born in Johnson City, N.Y., son of the late Walter Whipple and Elberta Templeton Franklin, and stepson of the late Albert L. Franklin, he was a graduate of Lackawanna Trail High School, Factoryville, and was a proud Air Force veteran, serving during the Vietnam War. He was employed as a certified boiler engineer and supervisor for a paper mill and before his retirement was an escort driver for an oversize load trucking company.

Gary was a very special man with many interests and talents. He served on the Alaskan Ski Patrol and was a surfer in Hawaii. He also raced motorcycles. Gary had a special gift for storytelling. His ability to recall past experiences in great detail both delighted and amazed all who knew him. He was a naturally talented artist, sketcher, poet and writer. He also had a great love for animals, especially his dogs. Gary was very proud of his Air Force service, served with great honor during the Vietnam War, and loved telling the story of when he shook President John F. Kennedy's hand. Gary's greatest gift was his loving, friendly nature. His phone calls and visits to family and friends were full of laughter and delightful tales.

Surviving is a devoted son, Brian and wife, Natalie Meitzler Whipple, Orefield; two precious grandsons, Jacob and Jonathan; two sisters, Faye T. Hendricks and husband, Robert, Hummelstown; and Linda J. Franklin Stuart and husband, Ronald, Dalton; a brother, Llewellyn J. Franklin and wife, Patricia, Dillsburg; a half-sister, Julie Whipple Stroble, La Porte; two half-brothers, Tim Whipple, Altoona; and Tom Whipple, Hughesville; several nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will be held in Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center, 401 Penn Ave., Scranton, PA 18503.