Joel Willard Whitaker passed away peacefully on October 16, 2015, at home following a bike ride. Joel was born in Ogden, Utah, to Willard John and Vera Marie Thorpe Whitaker on July 20, 1940. He attended Ogden City Schools, graduating from Ogden High and Weber State College. He taught science at Highland Jr. High and Ben Lomond High School, retiring after 46 years on July 16, 2015. No one left his room without knowing that he caredabout their learning and more importantly, about each and every one of them. Joel was a dyed in the wool scientist: always searching, and in his pursuit of knowledge, a stickler for details. Having roller-skated competitively as a youngster, he remained active: hiking, fishing, camping, shooting, playing racquet ball, and biking. Joel was active in the LDS church. He had served in various callings, including several bishoprics. He was currently serving as the High Priest Group Leader in the Mt. Lewis 5th Ward. He was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his only brother Quinn (Hope Vicki), nephew John (Tasia Rasmussen), and Jill Flamm, close friend of 47 years. Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at Leavitts Mortuary, 836 36th Street, Ogden, Utah. Friends and family may gather from 12:45 to 1:45 pm prior to services. A Celebration of Joels Life will be held at a later date. Interment at Leavitts Aultorest Memorial Park, 836 36th Street, Ogden, Utah. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to United Way of Northern Utah. Please send condolences to the family at: www.leavittsmortuary.com Visitation Information Date: Saturday, October 24, 2015 Time: 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm Leavitt's Mortuary Address: 836 36th Street , , Ogden, UT, 84403 801-394-5556 | Map Service Information Date: Saturday, October 24, 2015 Time: 2:00 pm - Leavitt's Mortuary Address: 836 36th Street , , Ogden, UT, 84403 801-394-5556 | Map A Celebration of Joels Life will be held at a later date. Cemetery Information Date: Saturday, October 24, 2015 Leavitt's Aultorest Memorial Park Address: 836 - 36th St., , Ogden, UT, 84403 | Map