Richard G. Whitten "Bumper", age 85, of Lake Station, passed away Monday, November 12, 2018. He was born on May 29, 1933 in Kankakee, Illinois to the late Richard and Lydia Whitten. Bumper proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Korean War. He retired from the Teamsters Local #142 where he worked as a truck driver. His grandkids were his pride and joy and he cherished the time he spent with them. He was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his sons, John (Debbie) Conley, Richard Whitten; grandchildren, Edna (Ken) Elwood, Bryan Conley, Shawn Conley; great grandchildren, Stephanie (Wayne) Tyrka, Nick (Madison) Elwood, Tommy Elwood, Luke Elwood, Megan Conley ; one great great granddaughter, Molly Mae Elwood; brother, Terry Whitten; sisters, Gladys Sterling, Evelyn Bramer, Candy Mason; special neighbor and friend, Paul (Georgia) Jandura.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna Whitten; daughter, Sallie Wherry; grandson, Richard Wherry; six brothers, Marvin Whitten, Wes Whitten, Kenny Whitten, Willie Whitten, Ron Whitten and Jerry Denton; and five sisters, Carol Durkin, Kay Mann, Sandy Reynolds, Cynthia Whitten and Linda Whitten.

Memorial visitation for Bumper will be held Monday, November 19, 2018 from 3:00 pm until 6:30 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. A memorial service will take place at 6:30 pm at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .