Jerry Joseph Whitman, 72, died Saturday, March 2, 2002, at his home north of Brookings.

He was born July 6, 1929, in Hollywood, Calif., to Benjamin and Naomi (Schechter) Whitman.

Mr. Whitmans origins and early training were in the Jewish faith, and its values, ethics, and precepts were manifested throughout his life.

In spite of a lack of formal education, he became a skilled mechanic and metal worker, and eventually attained the rank of senior engineer with Raytheon Corp. He earned several patents for innovations in the development of tape recorders, electronic equipment and other gadgets.

He studied and spoke about history, science, music, photography and other disciplines. All his life he demonstrated an intense love for learning.

The wonderfully diverse friends and colleagues he attracted resembled a page from Whos Who in diverse disciplines and social strata, a family member said. As a scholar, researcher, engineer, and human being, Jerry was prized by a loyal circle of highly intelligent and creative people throughout all his years.

Survivors include his wife, Audrey; three stepchildren and seven stepgrandchildren.

The family requests memorial contributions be sent to the local food bank, Oregon Food Bank or any charity that specializes in feeding the poor.