Captain Arthur Whittemore, a revered maritime pilot and distinguished leader in Boston's nautical community, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Born in 1937, Arthur dedicated his life to the sea, a passion that began early and continued through his remarkable career.

Arthur was the son of the late Arthur and Edith (Ward) Whittemore of Roslindale, MA. He is survived by his daughter, Joyce Romano Biagini, and her husband Daniel of Marshfield, along with five grandchildren: Katherine, Nicholas (and his wife Sarah and son, Benjamin), Julia, Rachael, and Aidan. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Sue Cole. He was predeceased by his wife Teresa (Rooney), sisters Judith Roberts and Diane Sweeney, his brother Lewis Whittemore, and his beloved son, Joseph Whittemore. His passing leaves a void in the maritime community and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Arthur attended Lawrence Academy and Tufts University before enlisting in the US Navy Submarine Service aboard the USS Blenny (SS-324). After his service, he worked for the W.D. Whittemore Milk Company but found his true calling through an apprenticeship with the Boston Harbor Pilots. He spent 12 years learning the craft aboard the schooners Pilot and Roseway before becoming president of the association, a position he held for many years.

As President of the Boston Pilots, Arthur's leadership was pivotal in safely guiding vessels through Boston Harbor's challenging waters. His expertise was also crucial in significant legal matters, including the Motor Vessel Midnight Gambler case, and his commitment to maritime law and safety was steadfast.

Arthur's career was marked by numerous awards and accolades, and he was deeply involved with various maritime organizations. He served on the Port Operators Group, the Board of Governors of the Propeller Club, and as a trustee for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the American Pilots' Association. He was also an honorary member of the Boston Marine Society. He participated in the Tall Ships Parades in 1976, 1986, and 1992, and was honored to be the Parade Marshal in Sail Boston 2000. He also contributed to the APA finance committee and traveled across the US to network with other associations, bringing back valuable ideas for his organization.

Outside of his professional achievements, Arthur was known for his wit, mentorship, and camaraderie with fellow pilots and maritime professionals. His love for Labrador Retrievers, garden-grown red tomatoes, and golf were well known, and he cherished moments traveling the country with his wife Terry at pilot conventions and spending time with his grandchildren. In retirement, he enjoyed his golf community, Foxfire, in Naples, FL, and always returned north to Massachusetts for summer family time.

In memory of Arthur, please play a round of golf, enjoy some lobsters, or toast his wonderful life with a Stinger (brandy and a dash of white crème de menthe) in a martini glass.

A memorial service to honor Captain Arthur Whittemore's life and legacy will be held at the North Community Church in Marshfield Hills on Saturday, August 10th at 10:30AM.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: World Ocean School/Schooner Roseway, reflecting Arthur's lifelong commitment to maritime safety and community service, online at: https://www.worldoceanschool.org/

May his soul find eternal peace, and may his contributions to the maritime world be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.