George E. Whetstine, Jr. age 76 of Shelton, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on April 12, 2015. George was born in Bridgeport on March 8, 1939, the only child of Mary Clifford Whetstine and George E. Whetstine Sr. He was a graduate of Warren Harding High School, class of 1957. George made his career at Carpenter Technology, where he worked in the Chemistry lab until retirement. George Whetstine was a deeply devoted husband and father whose greatest pride and joy was in raising his family. During the many warm and vibrant family gatherings over the years, he could often be found center stage engaging in a spirited game of charades after having prepared the family repast. He spent a great deal of time and effort tending his yard, which was festooned with lilacs and hydrangeas, and took pleasure in his homemade birdhouse that was always bustling with new occupants. His fondest memories were of family lake vacations where he could be found chatting up locals, taking meandering foliage drives, fishing, and discovering tag sales where he would jovially haggle for a unique find. George was also a gifted writer, his prose bringing to life the memories he and his family created over the years. Always active, George enjoyed taking in the arts, the symphony, and ballet. He was, above all, a consummate philosopher and life-long learner who sought out activities for his continued personal enrichment. He reveled in debate and engaged in discussions ranging from politics, to current events, to film and cooking. Rare was the occasion when one could introduce a subject that he did not take an interest in learning more about. George Whetstine was a faithful Roman Catholic and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Survivors include his cherished wife of 42 years, Candace E. Whetstine, and his four adored children: George E. Whetstine III and wife Joann of Milford; daughter Laura Jean Whetstine and son Michael J. Whetstine of Jacksonville, Florida; and daughter Dr. Leslie M. Whetstine and husband William Mausteller of Boardman Ohio. In addition, he is survived by 5 treasured grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 10 am, meeting directly at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 220 Shelton Rd., Trumbull with a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Friends and family may call on Thursday from 4-8 pm at the Redgate Hennessy Funeral Home, Main St. and Gorham Place in Trumbull. Those who so desire may make contributions to the St. Vincent Medical Center Foundation, 2800 Main St. Bridgeport, CT 06606.The Whetstine family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the kind and compassionate staff at St. Vincent's Medical Center and Lord Chamberlain Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. To send online condolences please access: www.redgatehennessy.com