LaGrange Damon Whitmore

LaGrange Damon Whitmore III, known as Damon, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, in Southfield, Michigan, at the age of 62. Born on July 12, 1961, in Royal Oak, Michigan, Damon was a man of intelligence and humor, who lived a life marked by service, love, and a commitment to his family.

Damon graduated from Berkley High School and went on to pursue his passion for cultures and languages at Western Michigan University, where he studied Anthropology and Russian. His academic achievements led him to a distinguished career in the United States Navy, where he served on active duty for seven years as a Russian Linguist and Cryptographer. Damon's dedication to his country was unwavering, and he continued his service in the Navy Reserves, attaining the rank of Lieutenant (O-3).

After his honorable discharge in 1991, Damon attended Wayne State University, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1994. His legal insight and integrity shone through in his work at several prominent law firms.

Damon's life was a tapestry woven with the love of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. He is survived by his cherished daughter, Ashley Whitmore and her husband John Stepowski; his adored grandchildren, Isla and Cora Whitmore-Stepowski; his beloved mother, Phyllis Howard and the memory of his late fathers LaGrange Damon Whitmore II (Waltraud) and Marc Howard.

He will be deeply missed by his loving siblings Janice Utter and her husband Greg, Craig Whitmore and his wife Carol, Tanya Karas and her husband Eric, Natasha Riddle and her husband Jim, Kirstin Richmond and her husband Larry, Hetty Rasmussen and her husband Mitch, Mark Whitmore, and Heidi Whitmore and her husband Gary Krueger; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews who will all hold his memory dear.

Damon's larger-than-life personality left a permanent impression on all who knew him. He could captivate an audience with his charisma and his gift for storytelling. His love for the Navy and history was only surpassed by his love for his family and friends. Damon's journey through life was one of transformation and service. As a recovering alcoholic, he credits Guiding Light in Grand Rapids with connecting him to the purpose that fueled his sobriety. His involvement with Alcoholics Anonymous and his connection to spirituality through Buddhism supported his continued sobriety and led him to rededicate his life to service and helping others struggling with addiction. His family and friends are incredibly proud of his kindness and devotion to others.

Those who knew Damon will remember his quick-wit, hilarious antics, and constant curiosity. He was a life-long learner that could master a language in a week and was continually improving his guitar skills. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit's capacity for growth and redemption. His memory will be treasured and his presence sorely missed, but the impact of his love and selflessness will continue to resonate with all who were fortunate enough to know him. Damon loved his family and friends and they loved him, dearly.

In memory of Damon, memorial contributions would be appreciated to Guiding Light.