Frank and Garnet Whisenhunt

On March 8, 2015 both Frank and Garnet Whisenhunt of Eugene passed away unexpectedly. Frank was battling Alzheimer's and died of natural causes in the early morning. Garnet, later the same day, suffered a stroke.

They were married on June 29th, 1957 in Reno Nevada. They are survived by their daughter Amber and her husband Leland Mason of Bedford, Texas and their grandsons Drew and Derek Villegas. A great grandson will be born to Drew and Lana in August.

Frank was born on October 30th, 1932 in Forester, Arkansas to John and Narsise Whisenhunt. He was one of four sons and is survived by his brother James Whisenhunt of California and several nephews and nieces. His parents and two other brothers, Gene and Diz predeceased him.

Frank served in the US Navy during the Korean War on the U.S.S. Oakhill. He graduated from Oregon Technology Institute and retired from Lane Transit District.

Garnet was born on November 12, 1937 in Long Beach, California. She graduated from Springfield High School Class of 1955. She retired from Champion International. Garnet was active with the Red Hat Society and Springfield High School class reunion planning.

Garnet is the oldest of five children. She is survived by her mother, Ruth Harris age 98, two brothers Herbert Harris II, John Harris and two Sisters Valerie Vernon, Sally Welt and several nephews and nieces. She is predeceased by her father Herbert Harris.

A joint service and interment for the family was held at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon on March 16, 2015. A Celebration of Life is being planned and will be held at a later date with announcements to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memoriam to the Alzheimer's Association Cascade Coast Regional Office, 1238 Lincoln St., Eugene, OR 97401.

Published in Eugene Register-Guard on Mar. 22, 2015.