BORN

1947

DIED

2019

Ricky Whitlock Obituary

Ricky (Rick) Alan Whitlock, Age 72, passed away on August 3rd, 2019 due to complications from glioblastoma multiforme, a form of brain cancer.

He was born in Bristol PA on May 30, 1947 to the late John F. Fluher III and Martha Elaine Whitlock. Rick graduated from Lenape Regional High School in Medford, NJ in 1965, and Kansas University in 1977, with a Baccalaureate Degree in Psychology. He was married to Jessie Miller in 1968. They later divorced, but remained friends throughout his life.

Rick proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970, having achieved the rank of Staff Sargent. He then went to work in the banking industry and helped many people achieve their dream of homeownership through his real estate mortgage work. He was also a member of the Lions Club with particular emphasis on service to the visually impaired.

Rick is survived by three children and their spouses: Michael and Carrie Catanzaro (nee Whitlock) of St. Louis, MO; Robyn Whitlock and Orlando Mendoza of Lawrence, KS; and D.J. and Kirsten Ming (nee Whitlock) of Lawrence, KS. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren: Caitlyn Simpson, Camron Mendoza, Marcello Mendoza, Angela Ming, Luca Catanzaro, Sophia Snow, and Donnovan Simpson.

A celebration of life potluck will be held on August 31, 2019 in Lawrence Kansas at the Clinton Lake Overlook Park, shelter #2, 872 N. 1402 Road. The family would like to thank the friends, family, and caregivers who supported Rick throughout his battle with cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Visiting Nurses Hospice or Head for the Cure Foundation, 1607 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64108 or headforthecure.org.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Aug. 16, 2019.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Ricky Whitlock

Not sure what to say?





2 Entries

We will miss you so much. You were so intelligent, but also had the gift of being kind and loving. I have so much I want to say to you but will keep it in my heart, which is filled with grief about loosing you.

Jessie Dawson

August 16, 2019

So sorry for your loss. I knew Rick from our time at US Bank. He always listened to his clients and was courteous and helpful.
David Bunker

August 16, 2019

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Make a Donation
in Ricky Whitlock's name

Memorial Events
for Ricky Whitlock

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Ricky's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Ricky Whitlock's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more