Verland Thayne Whipple

Verland T. Whipple passed away peacefully on April 9, 2018, at the age of 88. He was born May 3, 1929, in Douglas, Arizona to William Wilford Whipple and Beatrice Thayne. 

His parents were born in the Mormon Colonies in Colonia Dublan, Chihuahua, Mexico, who both died when he was young. He was the 4th of 6 children, and he remained very close to his brothers and sisters; Walden, LaRee, Velda, Cale, and Boyd. He lived with family members growing up in Mexico, New Mexico, California, Colorado and Nevada.

Verland served honorably in the Central States Mission as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and immediately afterward in the US Army.

As a student at Brigham Young University, he was well known for his comedy acts and was honored for his excellence as an entertainer. In the years to follow he performed on nationwide tours with many of the well-known celebrities of the time.

Together with his wife, Mary Lou Parkes Whipple, he operated the Cameo Playhouse in Hollywood, California.

His love for writing resulted in dozens of screenplays for motion pictures. He produced a number of notable films including Ransom Money, and The Legend of Jedediah Carver.

In his later years, living in Salt Lake City, Utah and Ojai, California; he focused his writing efforts on poetry, songs, and short stories including his book Millenium.

CANTICLE OF SPRING 
(excerpt of a poem by Verland T. Whipple)

I have seen blossoms giving birth,
And apples born.
There is truth in buds.
They have promises to keep.
There is a sermon in the seeds
When flowers bloom, it is prophecy fulfilled. 
I have seen the leaves with healing green
Bring trees to life.
I have heard the streams sing songs of praise.
I have seen these miracles performed.
They are proof enough for me.
I believe.

Verland was known for his humor and positive attitude about life. He is survived by his son Thayne Whipple; daughter-in-law Sheryl B. Whipple; grandchildren, Graham Whipple, Haven Whipple, Parkes Whipple, and Sage Whipple; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.