John M. Whitling, 71, of Spencerville, passed away on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Lima Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family.

John was born on September 11, 1953, in Lima, to the late John M. "Jack" Sr. and Betty Mae (Pond) Whitling. He grew up in the Spencerville area graduating from Spencerville High School in 1971. After high school, he attended and graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree. Once he returned home from college, he began working with his father as a contractor for their company, Whitling and Sons Construction. On August 15, 1990, he was united in marriage to Diane "Dee" Smith. Dee passed away on November 18, 2021.

Although John loved his work as a contractor, his favorite role was that of a husband, father, and grandparent. He loved his family well and treasured time spent with them. John married the love of his life, Dee, and together they shared a rare love that only few have the pleasure of experiencing. Although it is not easy to let him go, we have peace knowing that he is reunited with the love of his life.

John served as an Amanda Township Trustee for 15+ years and was passionate about devoting his time and energy to his community. When he wasn't serving those around him with his work, he spent his free time watching old westerns, golfing with his lifelong friends, and spending time with his grandchildren.

John is survived by his daughter, Tara Gillispie of Spencerville; five grandchildren, Keaton (Morgan) Gillispie of Shawnee, Madison Whitling of Lima, Anna Whitling of Ottawa, Landyn Gillispie of Spencerville, and Ella Gillispie of Spencerville; one great granddaughter on the way, Palmer Gillispie; three sisters, Carla (Michael Sr.) Baer of Spencerville, Cheryl (Kent) Morgan of Lima, and Diana (Don) Degen of Lima; four sisters-in-law, Patty (Danny) madden of Newark, Judi Parrine of Wapakoneta, Janet (Bill) Smith of Powell, and Sherri Kalb of Wapakoneta; six nephews and four nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Diane; brother Michael Whitling; son-in-law, David Gillispie; and brother-in-law, Ron Parrine.

There will be a visitation from 4:00-8:00 p.m on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville. His funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024 also at the funeral home with Pastor Scott Johnson and Pastor Richard Jueckstock officiating. Burial will take place following the funeral at Gethsemani Cemetery in Lima. Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville is caring for John and his family. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer memorials be made to Lima Memorial Hospice in honor of John.