He was a prominent figure in the plumbing industry for several years. Prior to joining Chicago Faucets, he served as vice president of marketing for the Sterling Plumbing Group. At the time of his death, he was president and CEO of Ames Taping Tool Systems, a provider of drywall finishing tools, supplies and training. During the 1990s, Whipple was instrumental in the expansion of Chicago Faucets sales and marketing efforts. He helped lead the industry through the transition to non-leaded brass as he expanded the global sales of Chicago Faucets.

He spent 25 years in the building products industry, also holding executive positions at Hayward Industries and Congoleum Corp. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, and his three children; Amy, Ryan and Chase.