William Whitson Obituary

The Rotary Club of Forked River lost a friend and long time Rotarian on Tuesday December 13th.

William S. Whitson was a long time member of the Forked River Rotary and the recipient of 5 Paul Harris Awards for service to Rotary and our community. Although Bill worked extensively with many Rotary community projects, his most ardent campaign was to provide full Thanksgiving dinners to the needy families in Lacey Township, New Jersey. With Bill at the lead and working closely with the food bank, other community partners and his fellow Rotarians this program was responsible for providing full Thanksgiving dinners to thousands of people over the years. 

William Stuart Whitson was born in Lakewood NJ to Edna Scott Whitson and William Warren Whitson, younger brother of David Christie Whitson. Mr. Whitson is survived by his loving wife Susie (Sally Anne Bitzer), daughter Dawn Whitson Davis, son William Scott Whitson, and granddaughters Emily Anne Whitson and Sarah Scott Whitson. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

Mr. Whitson attended Toms River High School and graduated from Morristown School in 1954. He served his country as a Gunner and Heavy Weapons Infantryman in the New Jersey National Guard from 1956-1962. Mr. Whitson worked for Vernon Bitzer Associates, currently of Warminster PA, starting his career as a clerk and retiring as Vice President.

Growing up in Toms River NJ, Mr. Whitson developed a zest for the outdoors, learning sailing from his brother and hunting and fishing from his father, all of which remained life long passions. He enjoyed camping, family time in the mountains, and scuba diving with his family. Mr. Whitson derived great pleasure from being able to assist others and was an active member of the Forked River Rotary Club, working extensively with several community service programs. He was the recipient of 5 Paul Harris Awards for service to Rotary.