Funeral for Polk County Deputy Killed in West Salem Crash Set

Sgt. Whittaker was a huge fan of NASCAR, the Oregon Ducks, and the NFL's Tennessee Titans.

Funeral services have been set for a 15 year veteran of the Polk County Sheriff's Office who died following a car crash in West Salem on July 19. Photo Courtesy: Polk County Sheriff's Office

(DALLAS, Ore. ) - Funeral services have been set for a 15 year veteran of the Polk County Sheriff's Office who died following a car crash in West Salem on July 19.

48-year-old Randy W. Whittaker of Dallas, was a Sergeant with the sheriff's office, and will be laid to rest on Thursday at 3:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 320 SE Fir Villa, in Dallas, Ore. In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any local animal rescue in care of Dallas Mortuary Tribute Center 287 SW Washington St. Dallas, Oregon who is caring for the family.

Whittaker was a huge fan of NASCAR, the Oregon Ducks, and the NFL's Tennessee Titans.

He is survived by his wife, Suzy Whittaker, his faithful dogs, Truman and Tank, brothers, Richard Whittaker of Blackfoot, Idaho, Joey Whittaker of Eugene, Oregon, sister, Paula Coffelt of Dallas, Oregon, nephews, Geoff Coffelt of Keizer, Oregon and Derrick Coffelt of Salem, Oregon. He was preceded in death by his mother Carol Whittaker who died on January 23, of this year.

Whittaker was in his own vehicle with his dog, traveling east on Highway 22 in the right lane, when another vehicle passed them. Whittaker moved into the left lane, lost control of his vehicle and struck the large cement barriers running along the east side of the highway.

Police are still searching for the following vehicle: a white Dodge or Chevy 3/4 ton or 1 ton pick up truck, standard or possibly with an extended cab. The truck has an industrial type black flat bed. The pick up is raised, with large, oversize tires. The pick up appeared to be a work truck. In the pick up were two male occupants.

Salem Police request anyone who may have witnessed the events prior, during or after the crash, or see this vehicle to contact Salem Police Dispatch at 503-588-6123.