William Cole Whitman

Cole married the love of his life, Katie Tilley, March 25, 2015, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma what the family remembers as a “$40 jailhouse wedding.” To this union, one child was born, William Call Whitman. Cole and his dad, Bill, shared a bond like no other, but nothing surpassed the love he had for his son. He was the kind of father who always showed up—every ball game, every wrestling match, every ride. He was, without a doubt, the best dad around. He also enjoyed having breakfast with his mom, Dixie every Saturday.

Cole had a giving spirit. Every Christmas, he quietly sponsored families in need, making sure they had gifts to open. He was an avid hunter and was well known for his humor—he loved to stir people up and lived for the teasing. Though gruff at times, with people he had the biggest heart. He was known for his ability to write, loved to read, and loved all animals (except horses) were trademarks of who he was. His friendship wasn’t offered easily, but when it was, his loyalty knew no bounds.

He began working in the oil field at the young age of 14 alongside his dad and granddad. He and his father Bill were the best of friends.

Cole is survived by his wife, Katie, of the home; their son, William Call; his mother, Dixie Whitman of Binger; his father, Bill Whitman and Nancy of Fort Cobb; his maternal grandmother, Joyce Boyd of Binger; his paternal grandmother, Jeanne Rutherford and Mike of Hollis; his father-in-law, Rick and Sallie Tilley of Meers; his brother-in-law, Patrick Tilley and Kara, and Jensen, of Sterling; his sister-in-law, Kim Tilley, and her daughter, Memfiss, of Carnegie; along with numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles. He was a good and dear friend to many others.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Don Boyd; his paternal grandfather, Clyde Whitman; and his mother-in-law, Kim Tilley.