Ronald Wayne Whitaker, 65, of Lafayette, passed away at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Franciscan East in Lafayette.  He had been battling cancer.

  Ron was born June 11, 1958 in Lynch, Kentucky to the late Willis and Beulah (Watts) Whitaker.   He attended Lafayette Jefferson High School.

  His marriage of 33 years was to Kelley Bone on October 14, 1989 at her parents’ home in Brookston.

  Ron was an over the road truck driver for many years, including working for Brankle Trucking.  He also drove trucks for Oscar Winski and Waste Management in Lafayette.

  Ron enjoyed fishing in the Tippecanoe River, NASCAR, NFL football and old westerns.

  Surviving with his wife Kelley is a brother, Gary Whitaker of Fowler.

  Friends may call from 5 p.m. until the time of funeral service at 7 p.m. Friday, September 1, 2023 at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home of Brookston (101 West 4th St.); Pastor Matt Yeck to officiate.  

  Memorials may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society.

  Share memories and online condolences at www.clapperfuneralservices.com