James I. Whitten, M.D.

James I. Whitten, M.D. Age 82, Septemeber 3, 2016. Jim was born in Highland Park, Michigan on April 21, 1934. He graduated from Cass Tech High in 1952. Jim attended the University of Michigan and completed Medical School in 1959. He completed his residency in General Surgery at Mt Carmel Mercy Hospital in 1964. His early practice was cut short by the Vietnam War. He served in the Army Medical Corp from 1966-1968. Upon returning to Michigan, he resumed his general surgery practice. Jim always strived to increase his knowledge and improve the care for his patients. He went on to specialize in Vascular Surgery and Kidney Transplantation. Dr. Whitten performed over 300 Kidney Transplants during his career. He didn't seek success for himself but satisfaction in helping his patients resume full lives. Jim held various leadership positions: Chief of Kidney Transplant, Chief of Vascular Surgery, Director Vascular Lab, Director of Transplantation, President of the Academy of Surgery Detroit and Associate Clinical Professor at Wayne State University. More important than his career was his family. His children brought him great joy and pride. Jim was a doting grandfather to ten. He reveled in their laughter and hugs and cherished each visit. He was their number one fan at sporting events and told them they did an amazing job everytme. He was able to see four of his grandchildren reach adulthood and succeed in their endeavors. Jim saw his grandchildren as a gift that made life worthwhile. He always said they were his greatest accomplishment and legacy. Jim and Cathy had twenty-three wonderful years together. Jim was a loving, romantic, playful and adventurous husband. He loved road trips and traveling. They were the first up to dance and the last off the dance floor at a party. Jim had a wonderful zest for life. Luckily, he had time to enjoy those times before the Parkinson's limited his adventures but not his spirit. His most charming feature was his smile. Always full and joyful. Golf was a passion he enjoyed in his later years. Not a great golfer, but definitely a good sport. Jim dedicated his life to helping others. He served his country proudly. He served his patients humbly. He served his family with love and compassion. He was a man for others. His smile will remain forever in our hearts. Jim is survived by: His beloved wife of twenty - three years Catherine (nee Garrigan) and his cherished sister Kathleen Myers. His loving children: Stephen Whitten (Nazi), Patricia Kahn (Barry), Douglas Whitten, D.O., Christine Whitten, Thomas Charron (Laura), and Danielle Malone (Micah) His beloved grandchildren: Daniel and Jenna Kahn, Shane and Krystal Whitten, Cate, Connor and Aidan Charron, Devon Malone, and Lily and Sophie Whitten. His loving brother in law and sister in law: James Garrigan (Terry) and JoAnne Christoff (Dan) And many loved nieces and nephews and numerous dear friends. Memorials may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation and the Fr. Vincent Welsh Foundation Please join us for the Rite of committal, immediately following the mass at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, and a celebration of his life at the Courthouse Grill, 41661 Plymouth Rd., Plymouth, 48170 Visitation at the R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home, 15451 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Tuesday from 2 - 9 p.m. with a Scripture Service at 8 p.m. In state at St. Michael Catholic Church, 11441 Hubbard, Livonia, Wednesday from 10 a.m. until Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Please share a memory of Jim by signing his guestbook. Funeral Home: R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services 15451 Farmington Rd. Livonia, MI US 48154