Daniel J. Whittaker, 67, of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, died surrounded by loved ones Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2019, after a short illness. Dan was born Dec. 16,1952, to the late William and Ruth Whittaker of Great Barrington. The fourth of their six children, he grew up at the heart of a large and loving family. Dan inherited his legendary father’s sales skills and began contributing to the family businesses at a young age.
Dan graduated from Monument Mountain Regional High School in 1970, where he was the captain of the varsity ski team. He continued competing internationally after graduation and participated in the 1971 Olympic trials in Austria with the U.S. Ski Team. After high school Dan stepped further into the family businesses alongside his father and siblings, where he excelled for many years. Eventually he branched out on his own, opening and operating several businesses in Pittsfield before retiring to Florida in 1999. In his early 20s, Dan met his love, Robin. They married in 1977 and soon after, welcomed four beautiful children. Dan’s commitment, presence and generosity as a father were unparalleled.
Six years ago, Dan decided to brave the cold again to be closer to his children and grandchildren. He moved north, to Scotch Plains, New Jersey, where he has treasured his time as a beloved “Poppy” to his three grandchildren. Dan lived a full and active life. He loved nature and fishing, cars and antiquing, Patriots football, reading, and working out, and most of all, time with his loved ones. Dan is remembered for his charm and humor, his engagement with life and his incredible loyalty to his family. Dan will be deeply missed by so many, who will carry his zest for life and spirit of generosity in their hearts forever.
He leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Robin Whittaker, of Scotch Plains, New Jersey; his four children: Danielle Whittaker-Piazza and husband Richard Piazza of Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, William Whittaker of Pittsfield, Taylor Whittaker of Weehawken, New Jersey, and Brian Whittaker of Pittsfield; three grandchildren: Juliana Piazza, Christian Piazza and Brayden Whittaker; siblings William Whittaker III and wife Ellen Whittaker of Great Barrington, Lynne Whittaker of Agawam, Jon Whittaker of Great Barrington, Jane Whittaker and husband Don Torrico of Egremont, and Tim Whittaker and Patricia Whittaker of Sheffield; and many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service for Daniel J. Whittaker will be held Sunday, Dec. 22, at 11 a.m. at Pelton Brook Cemetery in Great Barrington with Chaplain Dennis Castella officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday, Dec. 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the BIRCHES-ROY FUNERAL HOME, 33 South St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. In lieu of sending flowers, those wishing are encouraged to send contributions to the Wildlife Conservation Society in honor of Dan’s love of nature and wildlife. Condolences may be sent through birchesroyfuneralservices.com.
