In Loving Memory of  Richard “Dick” LeRoy Whittaker

May 5, 1945 – November 16, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Reverend Richard “Dick” LeRoy Whittaker, age 80, who died peacefully in his sleep at home on November 16, 2025. His death marks the close of a remarkable life devoted to faith, family, and service.

Born in Chicago, Illinois to Joyce and Earl Whittaker, Dick grew up in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Las Vegas, where he graduated from Western High School. He pursued higher education at Grace Christian University (formerly Grace Bible College), laying the foundation for a life of ministry and leadership. Early in his career, Dick worked as an arson investigator, collaborating closely with the ATF and serving as an expert witness in court hearings. His sharp intellect and integrity earned him respect in the field. Yet, his true calling was in ministry. For over 40 years, Dick faithfully served as a pastor, shepherding congregations at Grace Bible Church in Las Vegas, Grace Memorial Church, and Sun Country Church in Colorado. Most recently, he was a cherished member of the ministry team at Beacon Light Community Church, where his wisdom and compassion continued to inspire.

Beyond his pastoral work, Dick was a man of many passions. A gun enthusiast, he enjoyed shooting sports and became a certified instructor with the NRA. He was also a dedicated ham radio operator, proudly using the callsign N7LXJ, a hobby he passed down to his son, David. His interests reflected his curiosity, discipline, and love for sharing knowledge.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Earl L. Whittaker and Joyce E. Lenger, and his brother, Larry Whittaker. He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Patricia Whittaker; sons John Whittaker and David (Kelly) Whittaker; grandchildren Meighan, Craig, Ellie, Chynna, Jack, Raquel, and Alexa; siblings Tom Whittaker and Pam MacDonald; several nieces and nephews; and close friends Glenn Rotkovich and Don Bruszer.

A memorial service will be held at Beacon Light Community Church on December 6, 2025, at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Beacon Light Community Church, 6031 E Apple Ave, Muskegon, MI 49442, or digitally via CashApp: $BeaconLightChurch.

Dick’s death leaves a profound void, but his legacy of faith, kindness, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

RIP Reverend Richard “Dick” LeRoy Whittaker (1945–2025)

Heartfelt Condolences for  LeRoy Dale Bethke

Osage, Iowa — November 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the passing of Mr. LeRoy Dale Bethke, who died at Mercy Hospital in Mason City, Iowa, following complications from a massive stroke and a weakened heart. His death has left his family, friends, and community deeply mourning the loss of a kind and faithful man whose life was marked by service, love, and devotion.

Born on November 6, 1958, in Osage, Iowa, LeRoy was the eldest of eight children of Marvin Sr. and Phyllis Bethke, both now deceased. He grew up surrounded by family and faith, graduating from Osage Community High School in 1978. His professional journey began at LR Falk Construction, where he worked as a rock truck operator. Later, he joined Wayne McNeely Sanitation as a driver, and eventually became the site manager at the Mitchell County disposal site, a role he held with dedication until his retirement. LeRoy’s life was not defined only by his work but by his passions and his faith. He loved fishing with family and friends, whether or not he caught anything, and found joy in working on small gasoline engines, repairing lawnmowers and weed eaters with patience and skill. His hobbies reflected his practical nature and his love for simple pleasures.

Above all, LeRoy was a man of deep faith and integrity. His love for the Lord was genuine and alive, guiding his actions and shaping his character. He lived his Christianity through kindness, humility, and service, never imposing but always inspiring through example. He was someone you could count on without hesitation, a man whose word and presence carried trust and comfort. LeRoy was surrounded by his siblings—David, Carl and Mary, Darlene, Barbara, Marvin Jr., Kenneth—and his pastor, Troy Ruis, in his final days, a testament to the love and closeness of his family. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of faith, kindness, and resilience will endure.

LeRoy will be cremated, with a Celebration of Life planned for Spring 2026, his favorite time of year. His inurnment will be a private ceremony for the family.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Bethke family. May they find strength in cherished memories and solace in knowing that LeRoy’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

RIP Mr. LeRoy Dale Bethke (1958–2025)

In Loving Memory of Masi Rogers

Newark, New Jersey — November 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mr. Masi Rogers, who tragically lost his life on November 23, 2025, from injuries sustained in the recent mass shooting in Newark. His death marks the third young life taken in this senseless act of violence, leaving his family, friends, and the entire community devastated and searching for justice.

Masi was more than the victim of a tragedy; he was a beloved son, cousin, teammate, and friend whose presence brought joy and warmth to those around him. Known for his kindness, his dedication, and his uplifting spirit, Masi touched countless lives both on and off the field. As a member of the Newark Pop Warner family, he was admired not only for his athletic talent but also for his character, humility, and the way he embraced others with respect and compassion. His family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support shown in the days following his passing. The community has rallied together, offering prayers, condolences, and shared memories that reflect the impact Masi had on so many. His cousin spoke of the heartbreak of losing him, but also of the comfort found in seeing how widely he was loved.

To honor his memory, a balloon release will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 5 p.m. at Saint Peter’s Park Baseball Field, 378 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112. Friends, family, and community members are invited to join in celebrating Masi’s life, with blue or white balloons symbolizing peace, remembrance, and unity.

While his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, Masi’s legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. His life reminds us of the importance of compassion, community, and the urgent need to stand against violence.

We extend our deepest condolences to Masi’s family and loved ones. May they find strength in cherished memories, comfort in the embrace of their community, and solace in knowing that Masi’s spirit will live on.

RIP Mr. Masi Rogers (2007–2025)
A beautiful soul, gone far too soon. Rest in power. 🕊💙