ELKHART — John Ernest Whittington, 99, of Elkhart, passed away at his home Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017.

He was born Aug. 28, 1918, in Kendallville, to the late Arthur E. and Rose (Grobis) Whittington.

He married Betty Jean Kentner on Oct. 10, 1942. She died June 26, 2016.

Surviving are a son, John A. Whittington, granddaughter Kelley S. Whittington-Geppert (Dennis) and sister Phyllis Poole.

He was preceded in death by siblings Wilbur J. Whittington and Rose Marie Jensen.

In honoring John's wishes, cremation was chosen.

He and Betty will be buried in St. Vincent Cemetery at a later date.

John worked as an assembler and finisher of silver flutes at W.T. Armstrong for 34 years.

He served in the Air Force during World War II from 1943 until his honorable discharge in 1946.

Arrangements are under the care of Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital.