Dr. Ross M. Whitman

Dr. Ross M. Whitman, of Bay City, passed away Saturday March 10, 2012 at Bay Shores Nursing Center, age 76. The son of the late William & Grace (Wolfenbarger) Whitman, he was born February 22, 1936 in Neosho, Missouri. Dr. Whitman was the youngest of nine children. He grew up in California, where he enjoyed outdoor activities including surfing and sports of all kinds. He was an avid tennis player and fan. Dr. Whitman received his PhD from Michigan State University. He worked as a Psychologist in V.A. Medical Centers in Battle Creek, Saginaw and Oscoda until his retirement in September of 2011. Dr. Whitman is survived by his wife of 47 years, the former JoAnne L. Bjornson, whom he married on November 25, 1964; their two children, Jason (Julie) Whitman of Canton, MI and Kathy (Joe) Benchley of Midland; eight grandchildren, Braelynn, Lucas, Gabrielle and Christopher Whitman and Samantha, Nathan, Austin and Megyn Benchley; two brothers and three sisters, Frank (Nadine) Whitman, Alta (Dale) Thomas, William (Bernice) Whitman, Dee Vollan and Betty (Dean) Bray; and several nieces & nephews. The family of Dr. Whitman would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Bay Shores Senior Resident and Rehab Center for the excellent care and compassion they showed to Ross and his family during his time there. It was Dr. Whitman's desire that cremation take place. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. For those who desire to make a monetary contribution in Dr. Whitman's name, you are asked to please consider the Children with Special Needs Fund through the Michigan Department of Community Health.