Martin E. Whitmore

KENT — Martin E. Whitmore, 94, died peacefully at The Kent Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Dec. 12, 2010, after a brief illness.   A longtime resident of Kent, he was the widower of Mary Alice Soule, who died  Sept. 4, 2001, after 52 years of marriage.

He was born in Rochester, Vt., on May 24, 1916, son of the late Flava and Oscar Whitmore.

Martin was a World War II veteran, serving under Gen. George Patton Jr., with his 3rd Army in Europe. He was the master of many trades, working as a lumberjack in Vermont, owning his own bulldozing business in Kent, employed as an auto mechanic at Cliff’s Garage and working at Highwatch Farm for many years, retiring at the age of 74.

He especially enjoyed the challenge of repairing things and taught his sons and many others the importance of care and quality in every task. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, never expecting anything in return. His trademark yellow truck with the broom, and his friendly wave, will be remembered by many.

Mr. Whitmore is survived by his son, Kenneth Whitmore of Kent and his wife, JoAnn, and their children, Todd, Ryan and Elissa; his son, Roger Whitmore of Kent, and his children, Benjamin and Allison; two other grandsons, Shawn and Josh Whitmore; four great-granddaughters; and a brother, Donald Whitmore of  Kane, Pa.

He was preceded in death, by his son, Timothy S. Whitmore; his brother, Elmer Whitmore; and his sister, Aurelia (Whitmore) Raymo.

The Lillis Funeral Home of New Milford has charge of the arrangements. There will be no calling hours. The burial service will be private, at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Kent Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 355, Kent, CT 06757.

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