Vincent Whittacre, formerly a co-owner of the Palladium, Abbraccio, the Gold Standard Cafe, and the Gold Standard at Fitzwater restaurants passed away at his West Philadelphia home on Wednesday, September 13, at the age of 57.

Vince was born November 26, 1959, in Rochester, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Quigley High School in Midland, Pennsylvania, he attended Point Park College before graduating from the University of Pittsburgh.

After entering the service industry as a waiter and bartender at the Tender Trap in East Liberty (Pittsburgh), he moved to Philadelphia in 1984 and became both a business and romantic partner to Roger Harman and Duane Ball, owners of the Palladium on Locust Walk on Penn's campus. While Roger and Duane focused on front of house service, atmosphere, and the kitchens of their restaurants, Vincent handled all accounting, administration, business expansion, catering management, human relations, and other critical functions.

Vincent was an avid reader, lover of mysteries, film enthusiast, and an excellent cook. He could often be found at the opera or ballet crying along to one of his many favorite performances, especially Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet.  Vincent possessed an acidic wit and infectious laugh. Personal triumphs include leading the avant-garde in Pittsburgh and once dancing with the actress Mary Stuart Masterson.

Vincent was a founder and past president of the Baltimore Avenue Business Association. He was also active with the Curio Theater Company, treasurer of the Chester Avenue Dog Park, and was a generous contributor and booster to many important causes including Action AIDS, The Philadelphia AIDS Fund, and Philadelphia FIGHT. Vincent was a proud and compassionate member of the Cedar Park and broader West Philadelphia communities who cared very much about the lives of their citizens.

Vincent is preceded in death by his father, Charles Whittacre, mother, Eleanor (Castelli) Whittacre, Stepmother, Betty Whittacre, his partner Duane Ball, and many beloved dogs. He is survived by his husband, Roger Harman, brother, Eric (Pam) Whittacre, niece, Lauren (Giri) Vedula, nephew, Sean Whittacre, aunt, Dena (Whittacre) Lewis, dogs Mildred and Leila, and countless friends and neighbors.

A memorial service is scheduled at Calvary Church, 801 South 48th Street, in the lower level, on Sunday, September 24, from 1-5 PM. At 2:30 PM, there will be a few speakers and the community will be able to share memories. Please bring a dish to share, as the event will be a pot-luck. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Vincent's life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Action Wellness, the Curio Theatre Company, or the Chester Avenue Dog Association (c/o Calvary Church).