Donald Eugene Whipperman

Cause of death: TMB (Too many Birthdays)
Don was born in the early morning hours on January 14, 1924 at the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City. His parents were Edna Duncombe and Earnest Charles Whipperman. He grew up during the “Great Depression” on a 5 acre farm in East Mill Creek, where he learned early, the necessity of hard work. This was a trait that stayed with him throughout his life. He graduated from South High School. In 1943 he joined the Army at age 19, serving in Patton’s Army throughout Europe until Germany surrendered in May of 1945. His division was then assigned to the Philippines, where his division prepared to participate in War with Japan, until Japan surrendered in September 1945, after which he returned to Fort Douglas for an honorable discharge. He attended the University of Utah until he was called to serve a 2 ½ year mission. He was one of four Elders assigned to re-open the Czechoslovak Mission following the War. This Missionary experience had a life long impact on his life, he has always loved the people of Czechoslovakia.
In 1951 Don and Ruth Warnick (his across the street neighbor) were joined together as an Eternal couple in the Salt Lake temple by Ezra Taft Benson. In 1954 Don & Ruth moved to Riverside, California where he worked for the Fire department for 5 years; while working as a Fireman (during his off hours, he built a family home; wherein he discovered his life’s career, enabling him to become a successful Builder / Contractor).  Many of his fellow Firefighters were skilled in Electrical, Masonry, plumbing etc – Through their tutelage he became a skilled building Contractor.  Setting up his business in the Salt Lake Valley, building many homes, small office buildings and countless home remodels, he worked in construction until he was 80 years old.
His favorite times were spent fishing with his buddies. Don loved to garden and always had a large and productive garden, which he shared with family and neighbors. Don & Ruth moved to Washington, Utah in 2003, where they loved the weather, enjoyed the lifestyle, neighbors and served in the St. George Temple for over 10  years.
Don & Ruth served two missions together. The first in the Saskatoon, Canada mission & later in the Croatia Mission. Don was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; served in many callings and always testified of the truthfulness of the gospel. He maintained a happy, cheerful, uncomplaining, optimistic nature; always cherishing his eternal companion, Ruth.
Preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Con, and sister, Barbara. Don is survived by his four children, their spouses, 15 Grand Children & 47 Great Grand Children.
A Memorial Service will be held in Don’s honor on January 7, 2023 at 11AM. Latter-day Saint Church at 1834 E. 7995 S. Sandy, Utah. There will be a Viewing from 10AM to 10:45.
Don & Ruth Whipperman express love & gratitude for medical support & to innumerable family & friends who have enriched their lives.
Service Information
Viewing January 7, 2023 at 10:00-10:45 AM
1834 East 7995 South, Sandy, Utah





Funeral Service
January 7, 2023 at 11:00 AM
1834 East 7995 South, Sandy, Utah