Theodore Lee “Ted” Whittaker, age 67, of Plainwell, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026, at the University of Michigan Cancer Center following a long battle with gastrointestinal carcinoma. He was born January 24, 1959, in Marshall, Michigan, to Homer Scott Whittaker and Patricia (Richter) Whittaker.

Ted discovered his love of sports at an early age. Whether throwing a football, dribbling a basketball, or playing baseball, he was a natural athlete with a competitive spirit and a love of winning. After moving to Portage at age 11, he continued to excel in athletics throughout his school years and earned a varsity letter in basketball from Portage Northern High School, graduating in 1977.

Ted attended Northern Michigan University before transferring to Western Michigan University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1982. He was an active member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and developed a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors during his years in the Upper Peninsula.

While attending Western Michigan University, Ted met Jennifer on a blind date. They discovered they shared the same birthday, one year apart, along with many other interests. They married in 1983 and began their life together in Gobles. Their adventures included traveling across the country with their beloved Golden Retriever, Sparky, exploring the West Coast with little more than maps and a compass to guide them.

In 1990, Ted and Jennifer welcomed their daughter, Kelsey. Ted began a long and successful career with Erickson’s Flooring and Supplies, where he became a top salesman. He enjoyed meeting people and took great pride in his ability to connect with customers and help them find what they needed.

Ted was always happiest when he was active and pursuing a challenge. A family trip to Michigan’s Adventure in 1996 sparked what would become a lifelong passion for roller coasters. He eventually became a devoted Cedar Point enthusiast, eagerly anticipating each new attraction and keeping track of the many coasters he rode. His adventurous spirit remained with him until his cancer diagnosis in 2023.

Fitness and competition were also important parts of Ted’s life. After moving to Plainwell in 2003, he maintained a rigorous exercise routine, often rising at 4 a.m. to work out before heading to work. He enjoyed golfing at Lake Doster Golf Club and was a dedicated bowler, helping lead his teams to victory and even recording numerous games with ten consecutive strikes.

Ted’s faith became an important part of his life when he began attending Friendship Wesleyan Church in 2010. He quickly became an active member, serving on the safety team and as a morning greeter while participating in Bible studies, Vacation Bible School, food drives, exercise classes, and other church activities. Even after his cancer diagnosis, Ted remained committed to staying active, continuing to exercise five days a week until shortly before his final hospitalization.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Homer Scott Whittaker and Patricia Whittaker, and his wife, Jennifer Whittaker. He is survived by his mother-in-law, Ruth Durbin of Dearborn; his sister, Candace (John) Spears of Plainwell; and his daughter, Kelsey Whittaker of Plainwell.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Coaster Enthusiasts https://www.aceonline.org/donations/.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Friendship Wesleyan Church, 1285 102nd Avenue, Plainwell, Michigan.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Ted’s guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Whittaker family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 South Woodhams Street, Plainwell, MI 49080.