Raymond A. Whipple, "Whip", 86, passed away peacefully at home on September 10th, 2012 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Raymond was born in Milan, PA on October 13th, 1925, the oldest child of Sherman E. Whipple and Marguerite (Campbell) Whipple. On March 4, 1955 he married the love of his life and best friend, Joan L. Swearengin Whipple in Binghamton, NY. He served his country in the US Navy during WWII on the ship the USS Benson. Raymond was a lifetime resident of Bradford County and although he had many jobs throughout his life, he retired from Ingersoll-Rand after many years of employment as a skilled machinist. While at the IR he received several awards for his outstanding performance and dedication. He was active in the community serving as both a volunteer firefighter in the Athens Fire Department for many years and in the Athens Fire-police. Until recent years Ray was an avid hunter, golfer and gardener. He has been a longtime member of the Athens United Methodist Church, Benevolent Order of the Elks, Athens Fort Sullivan American Legion, and the V.F.W. Post 1536. He was the last-living, original member of the Tioga Point Hunting Club located in LaPorte, PA. Raymond was dedicated to his family and loved his constant companion and faithful dog, Mitzi. Raymond is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law Raye and Jim Connolley of Mechanicsville, VA, Linda and Michael Crum of Mansfield PA, and son and daughter-in-law David A. and Sheena Whipple of Athens, PA; and grandchildren Lauren Connolley, Megan Connolley, Jessica Crum, David G. Whipple and Lindsay Whipple. His sister, Romayne Olsen (Barney), DeBary, Fl, many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends also survive. Raymond was predeceased by his wife of 54 years Joan L. Swearengin Whipple, his parents, a brother, Gerald Whipple (Beverly) and sister Clarice Hazard (Melvin).

At Ray's request, there will be a private graveside memorial service at the Bradford County Memorial Park, Luther Mills, PA. However, friends may kindly consider a memorial contribution to Guthrie Hospice, Athens United Methodist Church, The Guthrie Cancer Center, The Tioga Hunting Club, or other organization of their choice. Memories and condolences for Ray's family may be shared by visiting our Web site at www.tiogapointcremation.com. Caring assistance is being provided by the Cooley-Tioga Point Cremation and Burial Options, Inc., 802 N. Main St, Athens, PA.