Elbert (Spud) Whitman served on the SS Sinclair Rubilene, the SS Frederick C
Howe and the SS Simon Benson. He was just a really fine Armed Guard crew member.
He was well liked by his fellow sailors that he worked with. He served in the
Navy from 1943 to 1945.
After being discharged he went back to his small town of Paradise, Kansas and worked
34 years as a pumper in the oil fields. He also worked on the Mississippi river boats for
three years as an oil pumper.
He has been married to his wonderful wife, Beth, for nearly 54 years. They have
four children, two boys and two girls, who are all grown to adulthood and have provided them
many fine Grandchildren.
One of their sons is also called Spud Whitman, has been seen by his old Navy buddy, Jay Larson, taking part in the PCRA Rodeo Events.
Mom and Pop take in all these events they can. Spud is now 76 and says he could
enjoy better health but says, “Hey, I’m pretty darn lucky and I know it.” Obviously
they both enjoy life.