Cynthia L. Whitman

Cynthia L. "Cyndi" Whitman passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, with her family by her side. She was 66 years old.

She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Vroon.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Patrick Whitman of Indian River; her daughter, Amy Whitman of Indian River; her son, David Whitman of Petoskey; and her mother, Virginia Vroom of Lincoln, Michigan. She is also survived by her sister, Pamela (William) Smith, of Lincoln, and her brother, Jerry (Connie) Vroom of Joshua, Texas, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Cyndi was born on December 6, 1959, in Holland, Michigan, to Donald and Virginia (Hulst) Vroom. She moved to Indian River in 1976, and graduated from Inland Lakes High School in 1979, where she began building the lifelong friendships and community connections that meant so much to her.

On December 29, 1979, she married the love of her life, Patrick Whitman, beginning a lifelong partnership centered on family, love, and shared memories.

For many years, Cyndi worked as a teacher's aide at Inland Lakes Elementary School. She had a remarkable gift for connecting with children, especially those with autism, offering them patience, understanding, and genuine care. Her work made a lasting impact on countless students and families. She retired in 2020.

Cyndi found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved tending to her flower gardens, camping, and spending time at the beach. Above all, she cherished the Christmas season. She took great pride in decorating her home, filling it with warmth, lights, and holiday spirit, and she found true happiness in giving to others-thoughtful gifts, baked treats, and acts of kindness that made the season special for everyone around her. Celebrating with her large extended family, especially the joy of Christmas with the little ones, was her favorite time of year.

She will be remembered as a kind, loving, and generous woman whose warmth touched everyone she met. Cyndi will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.