Wilbur Henry Whan

Wilbur Henry Whan, 81, of 112 North Middle Street, Columbiana, passed away at his home Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2005.

He was born September 25, 1923 on the family farm, Fairfield Township, to the late Ralph A. Mabel (McMillan) Whan.

He graduated from Fairfield High School and joined the U.S. Navy in 1942. He served as gunners' mate in the Armed Guard in the American, European, African, Middle Eastern, Asiatic and Pacific areas during WW II. After navy service, he went into business with his father, as Ralph Whan and Son. He later formed Whan Construction Co. and Envirco, Inc. After the sale of these businesses, he continued in business as Whan Inc. with his son and daughter.

He served on the Board of the Columbiana County Mental Health Center, was a former member of the Columbiana County Fair Board where he also served as President. He was a former member of the Lisbon Rotary Club, where he was the recipient of Rotary's Paul Harris award in the 1990's, for promoting better understanding and friendly relations among the people of the world. He maintained Life memberships in the American Legion, Veterans of /Foreign Wars and the Navy League of the United States.

He is survived by his wife, Helen T. (Hum) Whan, whom he married February 23, 1952. A son, Jeffrey (Beth) Whan, Leetonia and daughters, Elizabeth Vignon, New Waterford and Kay (Dave) Thompson, Leetonia, as well seven grandchildren: Erin, Elaina and Jarad Thompson, Jamie (Matt) Booth, Michael, Daniel and Jordan Vignon also survive.

In addition to his parents, Wilbur was preceded in death by a son, William (Chipper) Whan and a brother, Arthur Whan.

The Rev. Joanne Dota, Chaplain of Hospice of the Valley, will officiate at the 11:00 a.m. Saturday funeral service in the Warrick-Kummer Funeral Home.

Friends may call 2-4 and 6-8 Friday at funeral home.

The Honor Guard of the Benjamin Firestone Post #290, American Legion will render military honors.

Family requests that memorial contributions be made to: Hospice of the Valley, 2235 East Pershing Street, Salem OH 44460 or to a charity of your choice.