Obituary of Morton H. Dewhirst

"Mort" was born in Santa Barbara to Laurence Hamilton and Jenny Morton Dewhirst. He attended local schools including Santa Barbara High School and UCSB, where he played on the tennis team. He joined the Air Force and was stationed in Texas and Colorado. He met his future wife, Jean, while in Colorado and when he was discharged they moved back to Santa Barbara and were married. They had three children Janice (Don Moraga), Laurence, and Elaine (Rick Skinker). He joined the SB Sheriff's Office in the 1960's, rising to the rank of Lieutenant under Sheriff John Webster. He became a spokesman for the Department during the Isla Vista riots in February 1970. After his retirement he worked for many years for the Montecito Police Patrol. His favorite role, however, was loving family man. He was supportive of his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids in their education, sports, and all endeavors, and encouraged them all the way. He will be sorely missed by his children and their spouses, as well as by grandchildren Rick Dewhirst (Claire), Daniel Moraga, Andrea Levi Meza (Mark), Lauren Skinker and Sarah Skinker, along with great-grandsons Ryan and Miles Dewhirst. Per his wishes, no services are planned.