Kathryn (Kay) Heinsheimer Whiting
Kathryn (Kay) Whiting was born on Dec. 5, 1913 in Sioux City, Iowa as the oldest child of David and Luella Heinsheimer. The family moved to Sioux Falls, S.D., where Kay spent her formative years. She attended Mills college in California and then the University of Nebraska, which led her to a love of football, She rooted for the Cornhuskers and then later for the Huskies and Sea Hawks. She also attended a decorating school in New York before joining the Marines at the beginning of World War II. During her enlistment in the Marines she achieved the rank of Sergeant.
While serving in San Francisco, she met and married Frank Whiting and at the conclusion of the war they moved to Seattle, Frank’s home town. Their daughter Barbara was born and raised in Seattle, but spent many enjoyable trips to Orcas. In 1967, after Frank’s retirement, they moved to their home, right next door to Rosario on Orcas. They spent many years boating in the San Juan Islands and Canada and their boat was always named “Sgt. Kay.” They also enjoyed traveling and had marvelous trips to South America, China, Alaska and many parts of the United States.
In 1994, following Frank’s death, Kay continued with an active life style, attending numerous island events with her long-time friend Sarah Geiser, as well as spending all the holiday gatherings with Sarah and her family.
After her December 2012 birthday when she turned 99, she experienced a decline in her physical abilities and this led to more care needed at home. Kay passed away peacefully at home on March 26, 2013. She is survived by her daughter Barbara Conver, son-in-law Timothy Conver, grandson Brent Cover, his wife Jessica and great-grandson Ty Conver, grandson Nicholas Conver and granddaughter Morgan Conver, all of California. Also there are numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends.
The family would like to thank the group of loving care givers, especially Sue Cline and Barbara Griffin who were in constant attendance. There will be no memorial service, the family will gather privately at a later date to celebrate Kay’s life. Kay had a passion for animals of any kind, and the family suggests those wishing to make a remembrance on Kay’s behalf contribute to Orcas Animal Protection Society, PO Box 1484, Eastsound, Wash. 98245.
