Former Gov. Whitcomb dies at age 98

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Published: Friday, 05 February 2016 13:58

INDIANAPOLIS – Flags are flying at half-staff in honor of former Gov. Edgar Whitcomb’s passing.

“Gov. Ed Whitcomb was a great man whose life of courage, service and adventure inspired generations of Hoosiers and he will be deeply missed,” said Gov. Mike Pence in a statement. “Gov. Whitcomb was a treasure to our state and I mark his passing with a sense of personal loss as will thousands of Hoosiers whose lives were touched by this remarkable leader.”

Pence ordered the flags should be flown at half-staff for seven days from his death Thursday.

Gov. Mike Pence joins former Gov. Ed Whitcomb on the front porch of his home in Rome, Indiana in 2011. Photo courtesy the Governor’s Office.

During World War II, Whitcomb served in the Army Air Corps as a B-17 pilot. He was captured in 1942, but escaped a prison and swam eight miles through shark-infested water. Later he was recaptured, but eventually escaped again.

Whitcomb was elected in 1968 and served as Indiana’s 43rd governor.

“Ed Whitcomb led a period of reform and modernization in state government,” said Pence in a statement. “During his term as governor, Ed Whitcomb led the state of Indiana with common sense and conviction, improving the lives of Hoosiers.”

In addition to his work as a public servant, Whitcomb was known for his adventures.

He spent years sailing the world’s oceans before returning home to settle into a quiet life in Rome, Indiana.

Whitcomb passed away at his home Thursday at the age of 98.

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