Long time educator passes away

A 32-year veteran of the Siuslaw School District who began his education career in 1961 in Florence passed away last night.

Richard N. Whitmore was principal at Siuslaw from the fall of 1974 through the end of the school year in 1993. Whitmore was born in Toledo in 1937; married his bride of 55 years, Barbara, in Toledo in 1957.

He taught for seven years, until he was promoted to vice principal beginning in the 1968-69 school year.  For the next six years he maintained a presence in the science classroom as well as the VP’s office.

He assumed the Principal’s office August 1st 1974 when former principal Glen Butler was promoted to the Superintendent’s office.  Whitmore retired from education following the 1993 school year but continued an active role in the community through his death.

Date and time of services pending.