Theodore G. Whippie, 90, died February 25 in Newtown, with family at his side. He was born in Winchester, N.H., July 17, 1925, to Muriel (Frizzell) and George L. Whippie. He was the husband of the late Mary Elizabeth "Betty" (Townley) for 52 years.

He served in the US Navy as a pharmacist mate (1943-46), after which he completed his college education at the University of New Hampshire, majoring in forestry, and at North Carolina State with a master's degree in wood technology. His career years were spent working for US Plywood in South Carolina and in Brewster, N.Y., at the research and development lab, while living in Newtown.

Mr Whippie was involved in many aspects of the town, as he served on several town committees and youth activities, combining his care for the environment and his desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. He served on the Planning and Zoning Committee for several years, as well as other town committees; he was a Scout leader for both Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts; he was instrumental in establishing Cullens Youth Association; and he and his wife enjoyed many years with the Rocking Roosters Square Dance Club.

Retirement found the Whippies traveling together in their RV around the United States, Canada, and Mexico for eight years, after which they settled down again in Winchester, in 1996, where he lived until recently. During these latter years, Ted was involved in many community organizations, serving on the Board of Selectman, Kiwanis, the Winchester Historical Society, the Conant Library, and the Winchester Learning Center. Other hobbies he enjoyed at various times during his life included photography, canoeing, backpacking, handcrafting building projects, and brew master.

He will be missed by his five children and spouses, Larry and Linda Whippie of Newtown, Joan and Alan Freeman of New Milford, Randy and Natalie Whippie of Missoula, Mont., David and Connie Whippie of New Milford, and John Whippie of Rocky Hill. His grandchildren David, Justin, and Jonathan Freeman, Amy and Matt DeVoe, Katie, Kelly, Shawn, and Michael Whippie, Chad Whippie, Thyra and David Nagy, Renee and Chad Barney, Tanya Whippie, Karen and Brian Geerer, Carl Whippie, and Katie Whippie; seven great-grandchildren; a brother Richard Whippie, and wife Marion, of Winchester; a sister, Joyce (Clifton) Sawyer, and husband Clifton, of Greenfield, N.H.; as well as many nieces and nephews also survive Mr Whippie. His wife and a brother, Clifford Whippie, predeceased him.

A celebration of his life took place in Winchester, at the United Church of Winchester, Monday, February 29.

Memorial gifts may be made to Cullens Youth Association, PO Box 323, Newtown CT 06470.

Local arrangements were in care of the Honan Funeral Home, Newtown. To leave an online condolence visit www.honanfh.com.