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Xenia, Ohio

Thomas Whalen Obituary

XENIA Thomas Jerry Whalen, age 63 of Xenia passed away Saturday, October 26, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family and friends. Jerry was born September 10, 1950 in Springfield, OH, the son of Edward and Eileen (Riley) Whalen.

Jerry was blessed with a loving wife and family and many wonderful friends. He was a teacher and administrator until he retired in 2005. He was the Co-Captain of the 1969 Catholic Central high school football team, and an avid OSU Buckeyes, Cincinnati Reds and Cincinnati Bengals fan. He was proud of his many awards, including the inaugural Knights of Columbus 'Golden Shoe' Award, the Norma Zappin Top Special Education Instructor Award (3 time winner), and the Terry Thomas Award for Service to Students and Administrators in Greene County. He loved football, golf, travelling and most importantly, spending time with his family and friends

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna; his 6 children: TJ; David; Shannon; Lindsay; Nichole and Todd; 11 grandchildren: Lanigan, Conner, Brody, Adrianna, Kinsley, Cohen, Lana, Carson, Luke, Caine and Jerzie. He was anxiously awaiting the arrival of another grandson. He is also survived by 7 brothers and sisters; as well as numerous other relatives and dear friends.

The man affectionately known to many as "Jerry" "J-Pa" "Tall-Pa" and "Jer-Bear" will be truly missed.

Friends are invited to share in celebrating his life Wednesday, October 30th from 4-8 PM at St. Brigid Catholic Church, 312 Fairground Rd., Xenia. The Funeral Mass will be held 11 AM Thursday, October 31, 2013 at St. Brigid Catholic Church, with Rev. John Krumm officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jerry to Catholic Central Football Team, 1200 E. High St., Springfield, OH 45505.

Online condolences can be made at www.mccolaughfuneralhome.com. Services are in care of McColaugh Funeral Home Xenia, Ohio.

Published by Fairborn Daily Herald on Oct. 28, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
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Dear Donna and all "Little" Whalens. Seems just like yesterday when "Jethro" and all of us were playing ball in the "old neighborhood" of Perrin and Rosewood Ave's. Jerry and my brother against me and Timmy and vice versa up at Highlands School. Sometimes we would let Richie and Dennis play too. We had fun. Very proud to hear of all the Whalen's accomplishments in life.Mrs. Whalen had to raise 8 of you by herself and I believe all 8 kids are college grads! But I have to give "Mrs. Glenn" a lot of the credit too! Keep smiling buddy!

Jack Harris

November 26, 2013

Jerry was a hard working, kind man. He supported my efforts as a special educator with expertise and kindness. What a smile! A great example for me.

Neil Silvert

October 31, 2013

Jerry was a wonderful boss - his door was open, he was very supportive, and he always had a smile on his face. I could tell he was a great dad - his office was decorated with photos of the kids and grandchildren, and his face lit up when he talked about them, which was often. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Moira Laughlin

October 31, 2013

Donna and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you! God Bless you all!

Paul, Sharon, Sierra and Zoe

October 30, 2013

Donna and Family, Jerry was a great and special for those years at GV. Always had a smile. Very special.
Will Pratt,2040 Deer Run Ln, London, Ohio 43140

October 30, 2013

Jerry (Coach) was such a beautiful person. He will be truly missed, I have been so blessed to have known such a man. Donna, God bless you and your Family.

David Wilson

October 29, 2013

Donna and Todd,
So sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Doug & Becky Bickett

October 29, 2013

Heaven is heralding the arrival of their new angel. What a wonderful man, and a blessing to all who knew him. Sharing your sorrow, Dennis & Robin Vaughn and family

October 29, 2013

May God's peace and love be with you Donna and your family...we know it is with Jerry.

Ellen Phillips

October 29, 2013

Donna and Family:
I will always remember Jerry for being such a kind gentlemen. He accomplished so much in his life. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this diffuclt time.

Dee Dee Brust (Dunn)

October 29, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to the Whalen family. May your memories of Jerry and the love and support of friends sustain you during this difficult time.
Carole & George Belcher

Carole Shartran/Belcher

October 29, 2013

So Sorry for your lost,Donna God Bless all of you

October 29, 2013

Jerry was such a nice person, always smiling and happy, but he had lots of wonderful reasons to be such a happy person. God bless the family--you are all so lucky to have each other.

Ellen Ryan

October 29, 2013

Donna and Whalen Family, Sorry to learn of Jerry's untimely death. His picture captures that same contagious ,impish grin he wore growing up. My prayers are with you all. RIP Jerry .

Fritzie Calabrese Hagan

October 29, 2013

I cannot think of Jerry without smiling. He was always so kind, humorous and giving. May the Almighty help the Whalen family through this time of grief. And to Jerry I would like to say thank you for being a part of my life.

Bob Logsdon

October 29, 2013

Donna and kids I am so sorry about the loss of Jerry, your family has always had a sweet spot in my heart, you always shined God, Love and Family.

Kathy Grooms, Grigsby

October 29, 2013

Donna and family -- May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Steve Malone

October 29, 2013

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