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Shawn Whaley Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Shawn Whaley
Abel De La Ossa
May 27, 2015
I was not aware Shawn had passed-please accept my deepest condolences for your lose, he was a classmate and good friend throughout high school in Arizona. I am very proud of his many accomplishments and his highly successful career doing things that most wouldn't dare try-he is a Hero! - he will me missed.
January 21, 2011
Judy,Tom, & Family:
I recently heard of this horrible tragedy that took over your lives. I am sure you are very proud of all of his accomplishments, but it doesn't make it any easier to bear. I have read some of the legacies and he was quite the man. My heart goes out to all of you, especially his wife and girls. I remember watching Shawn on the ice and he was so small, but could he move.
My prayers and thoughts are with you, and I am sure God has a special place for him in heaven.
Nancy, Gauthier, Ellis
January 11, 2011
Just finding out about this tragedy through mutual friends.Shawn you are missed! You were courageous, caring & had an amazing heart. Extremely sad to hear about this incident. My thoughts & prayers go out to his family.
Jay Allen
January 9, 2011
To the Whaley family,
I can't even recall how many tours I spent with Shawn, it seems like all of them. A consummate professional and one who could be trusted in all circumstances.
I will add my prayers to the many who have lifted you up in your loss.
This life is precious and Shawn lived it with passion.
In Christ,
Jay A. Allen, CDR, USCG (Retired)
Devin Williams
October 4, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Ron Guinta, ASTCM, USCG (Ret)
August 17, 2010
Shawn and I worked closely day to day from 2004 to 2008. I was the Senior Chief and he was the Chief in the AST shop. We shared a small "executive" locker room and I was usually in early. I always felt good when Shawn would arrive because I knew that this workday was going to be both easier on me and lots of fun. Easier on me because Shawn was a master technician, there was not one piece of AST related equipment in which he was not an expert. He was also energetic and proactive, always looking for better ways to do things. And most of all he knew how to get things done. Fun, because he was one of the warmest, most genuine and fun loving people I have ever known. He was never in a bad mood, always up beat and positive. Stay late...come in early, made no difference. He was loved and respected by his fellow AST's and completely dedicated to his shop, the Coast Guard and his family.
Laura McCann
August 14, 2010
Asije,
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. Your whole family will be in my prayers.
Carla Pfeifer-Wolfe
August 11, 2010
I knew Shawn back in our high school years in Yuma, AZ. I also worked with his mother at one of our high schools. I have many memories of Shawn, too many to write, but the one thing, he was a great guy with a great heart. Always a friend to everyone...no matter who you were. I was very shocked and saddened to hear of this and my heart goes out to the family, his wife, daughters, mom, dad and sister. RIP Shawn!! Respectfully, Carla Pfeifer-Wolfe
Rick McElrath
August 11, 2010
Shawn used to say "I'm Not Skeered". He was a quiet hero, and I'm sure his family is very proud of him. See you in the water on the other side brother.
August 9, 2010
To the entire family at the Sunset Grill. There are no words to express the sorrow of losing Shawn. My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Sally J. Simmonds
Clearwater, Fl
August 9, 2010
To the Whaley family,
I remember playing with Shawn in the neighborhood in L'Anse when my folks were visiting The Coens. Then some many years later meeting Shawn and his beautiful, darling wife,at the V.F.W in L'Anse last summer at my 25th class reunion. I am so grateful to have run into the 2 of you! I am so sorry and saddened by your loss. You are all loved very much!!!! Debbie Leaf (Marinich)
Heather Judkins
August 9, 2010
Dear Whaley family- I am so sorry to hear of Shawn's passing. He will live in your hearts forever. I am thinking of you at this difficult time.
Laurena Hedges
August 8, 2010
The service was the most touching service I ever attended. You and your family are in my prayers.
Corey Mates
August 8, 2010
Shawn, you are one of my best friends in life. You are a brother and you will never be forgotten. I am who I am today because I can call you my friend. Even if we hadn't talked in a while when we would it was like we had seen each other yesterday. I am proud to always call you my friend. Rest in piece. you are missed.
Donna Murray
August 7, 2010
My heart goes out to you Lindita and your girls, family and to all that ever knew your husband, Shawn. I was fortunate enough to meet most of you at the restaurant and your kindness and making me always feel welcomed, was so giving of all of you. You're family will always be in my heart.
God Bless,
Donna Murray (the chardonnay lady)
Mark Jensen
August 7, 2010
Blessings, my friend. I was surely a lucky man to have called you friend. We'll do our best to look after your loved ones as you look after all of us. Wow, too bad we guys are so shy about telling each other our feelings - you could have known just how much you were loved.
August 7, 2010
Whalebone,
If I could dig a ocean to heaven I would, I could fill it with my tears . Only then I could put back on my swimmer gear and bring you back to Linda and the girls. But I know this is not gods will. He must have needed a rescue swimmer so he took the best one, you. I know you will stand duty over all of us until we meet again in heaven.So from one Irishman and Pirate to another, rise your skull mug and drink from the straw. I asks only this favor of you, please save a stool at the bar for me next to you. Rest in peace my little brother.
your friend always, Hawk
Tina Lika-Collins
August 6, 2010
Dear Lindita,
You and your beautiful daughters are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so so deeply sorry for your loss.
Love,
Tina
Bruce Thornal
August 6, 2010
Besides all of the great times in the Clearwater Chief's Mess I had with Shawn, the best time was the year we went to the tarpon run in Boca Grande. Our team didn't do too well with the exception of the big bull shark but it didn't matter. Just spending the time on the boat and listening to Shawn's BS made the trip worth it. He had us laughing at ourselves and anyone who was unfortunate enough to drift close by. Then there was the night he broke into the other fishing teams' rooms and hid dead pass-crabs in their beds, crackers, refrigerators and who knows where else! Man those guys were pissed! Just another classic Whaley practical joke. I will truly miss his stories, jokes and that certain laugh that you knew meant he was up to something. Linda, thank you for sharing some of your precious time with Shawn with the rest of us. You and the girls are in our hearts and prayers.
Rick Merrill
August 6, 2010
For the 2 years at Airstation Clearwater working with Shawn he was a stand-up guy and an outstanding American. To the Whaley family and AST family sorry for your loss.
R.I.P Shawn
Jason Medina
August 5, 2010
There is only one thing I hope to do to people that Shawn does to me every time I think of him, smile. He had an amazing aptitude to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. He cared about people, and more importantly, the ones who he was responsible for.
You will be missed Shawn, and I will do my best to carry on your tradition of always making the now...a good time!
Debbie moskalyk
August 5, 2010
Lindita and family, Im so sorry for your loss Shawn will be missed and never forgotten. Love Larry and Debbie and Gwen
Priscilla Martinez
August 5, 2010
I work for Advance Physical Therapy and Wellness, I work the Front Desk. I would laugh when I saw Shawns jeep arrive, it was nice to see.I will miss seeing his jeep drive up. He would come in with a smile. And left with a smile. I was at the service today. I was so touched by all the people, he touched in his life. I am so sorry for your lost, peace be with you all. Priscilla
DAVID FORKER
August 5, 2010
shawn,buddy thank you for all the great memories from california to clearwater.our time spent together was priceless.may you rest in piece brother.YOUR MY FRIEND,YOUR IN MY HEART,AND I LOVE YOU. G0D BLESS ALL YOUR FAMILY.
Frances Butler Kole
August 5, 2010
You have my deepest sympathies for your loss. Thoughts and prayersare with the family. God bless all of you.
Kim Lawson
August 5, 2010
Tom, Judy, Michele, Linda and family, my sympathies to your family in this sudden tragic loss of Shawn. May you get comfort in all of your memories. You will all be in my thoughts and prayer.
Tim Pratt
August 5, 2010
I heard in the background on the TV today that a Coast Guard Hero died in an accident. As I always rush to hear news of a fellow Coastie my heart sunk to see a picture on the screen of one of my closest friends from my days in service. I remember the day I met Shawn and realized we were going to be great friends. He had just came to Florida from being stationed on IWO Jimo and was joking with Greg Quick about one of them putting a centipede in the others room. Shawn never missed a good time and was the first to lend a hand to his many close friends. He was selfless and many were unaware of his incredible rescues as Shawn was as humble as he was courageous. The smile that has been mentioned so many times is etched in my mind along with his unmistakeable laugh. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
August 5, 2010
Tom, Judy, Lindita, Mickey and the rest of the Whaley family,
I have so many fond memories of kids growing up with Shawn and Micky and ironically they were almost always around the frigid Lake Superior! Tom and Judy, I was so thankful for the time I got to spend with y'all while I was home...funny how God allowed that time for us to fellowship and remember the days and years that have past! Tom shared so many proud stories of Shawn's selfless acts of serving our great nation and serving proudly. I am so sorry that I was not ablt to get down there but know that I have been with you in spirit since it happened. Know that God will see you through and that my thoughts and prayers will continue to be lifted up. Judy....KEEP UP THE FIGHT!
Just remember my sweet family...know that God IS our Comforter and will see us through the lowest of lows. He understands our sorrow, our anger and still has arms big enough to hold and see us through . Love to All, Dawn Tollefson Robillard
Chris Bowers
August 5, 2010
I had no idea of your accomplishments but they do not surprise me. You were blessed with a lot of friends and family and we were blessed to have you in our lives. You always had a smile and always a kind word. I am glad I knew you and I will miss you. My prayers and heart go out to your family.
Sue Miranda
August 5, 2010
Whaley Family,
Please accept our most Heartfelt sympathies for your sudden loss.Our thoughts are with you and your family.During this difficult time.May your heart and soul find peace and comfort....Joe,Sue Miranda (Sunset Grill Customer)
Jody Huebner
August 5, 2010
We were all blessed to know Shawn here on earth regardless of the role he played in our lives be it large or small. Now God is blessed with his presence in heaven. He has reunited with the loved ones who have left before him. God bless the family, friends and coworkers of this wonderful and special man.
August 5, 2010
To the Whaley Family,
I am sorry to hear about Shawn. He had such a beautiful smile. I used to live around the corner from the Whaleys. May the Lord be with your entire family during this difficult time!
God Bless
~Christie Locklear (AKA: Rodriguez)
Lana Robillard
August 5, 2010
I was extremely sad to learn of Shawn's passing. I will always remember the great times we had as kids growing up in L'Anse MI and then meeting up again w/you in FL. I will never forget you Shawn!!!! My thoughts and prayers are w/you and your family.
Dave Coats
August 5, 2010
Shawn will be missed by our whole community. He was a great co-worker in San Diego(98-02). He always had fun with his friends and loved his family deeply. Our thoughts are with Linda and the girls.
Vickie Coats
August 5, 2010
I have met a lot of ASTs but little did I know when we left San Diego in 2002 that I would never again meet one that I would remember as clearly or as warmly as I remember Shawn Whaley. It was the first swimmer shop I had ever seen and I thought they all contained men as funny, geniune, sweet, brave, and as full of life as Shawn. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
August 5, 2010
Shawn - you were a joy to be around - you loved our son, Skylar and always paid a lot of attention to him when he was young - we will never forget you. To you family - our hearts go out to you - we are devastated by your loss as we know you are - but your son, brother, husband, father, etc was someone to be very proud of. We will never forget him.
DJ Delgado's family
Glenn Perrow
August 5, 2010
I remember Shawn growing up. I spent alot of time at his home as kids. He was a good friend. I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
DANIEL Mc ANDREWS
August 5, 2010
To the Family of Shawn, I knew him very well as I was stationed at Clearwater before I retired in 97.. May The Lord look out for you Shawn and for your family in this time of need, GOD BLESS YOU ALL... FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS..
Larry Graham
August 5, 2010
An AST brother, a family man and a friend, Shawn we all will miss you. In this time of mourning, let us all celebrate and cherish your life.
God bless you and your family.
Shawn, 'BRAVO ZULU' my friend.
Gio Canino
August 5, 2010
I don't think I can say anything that already hasn't been said. The thing I remember most about Shawn is that he was a happy-go-lucky guy who was always more concerned about your life as it pertained to you, rather than how it pertained to him. He was a generous, selfless friend. He would always greet you with a smile and genuine concern of how you were doing. Shawn was the type of guy that you were always genuinely glad to see, becuase you knew that at some point with him...you would be laughing. He is a true hero and the epitome of the aircrew credo: "so others may live". God bless ya buddy...
Brion Urtuzuastegui
August 5, 2010
Shawn,
I have many wonderful memories from our days at Kofa together. You were a great friend who was also an outstanding individual. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You will truly be missed.
Brion Urtuzuastegui
August 5, 2010
Shawn,
I have many great memories from our days at Kofa High. You were a great friend who ended up being an outstanding individual. My prayers go out to your family and you will truly be missed.
Michele Wolfe
August 4, 2010
To the Whaley Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Emma is very sad for her friend from school. We are praying for you all and if there is anything that we can do for you, we will. Your Curtis Fundamental Family is here for you.
Sally Doyle
August 4, 2010
Dear Whaley's - There are no words I can say to heal your heart, but please know how much we love you and loved Shawn. He was like one of the family even though we did not see him often, he was in our heart. We went to your house in Yuma this evening just so we could feel close to all of you and where Shawn grew up. We will all be there tomorrow in spirit. God bless you all. Love Sally (my husband Tom will be asking Shawn 100 questions about all the wonderful things he has done to help and save so many others on earth.
August 4, 2010
Rest in peace shipmate. CAPT Ed Cubanski
Ed Gransell
August 4, 2010
Dear Whaley Family,
I'm sorry for your loss. It is very hard to lose a loved one at such a young age. Prayers go out to all, especially his children. It is hard to lose a father.
Jon & Ann-Marie (Marcotte) Foucault
August 4, 2010
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your sudden loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. We pray the love of God enfolds you during your difficult times and He helps you heal with the passage of time. May your heart and soul find peace and comfort.
Ken Kiest
August 4, 2010
It's hard to find the words to say that can convey the deep pain I am feeling with the loss of such a good friend and fellow Rescue Swimmer. I have known Shawn for more than 20 years. My heart is sick with pain and devastation. I will miss Shawn for as long as I shall walk in this world. I love you my brother.'
"The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace." '
August 4, 2010
Dear Whaley family,
Let me express my heatfelt sorrow during this journey. I remember Shawn as always being fun and friendly in high school. It is an honor to call Shawn a fellow shipmate.
Traci (Sparks) Alves - Colorado Springs, CO
Joe Rock
August 4, 2010
Dear Whaley Family,
I did not know Shawn well. We only just met at the Rescue Swimmer Reunion. But I know the kind of man he was: someone who risked his own life on many occasions "So That Others May Live". In this world where the word "hero" is bestowed upon some who don't deserve the title, Shawn was the the real deal: A true American Hero and Patriot. I am proud to say that I knew him, if only for a short time. My heart goes out to you all at this sad time and I hope that the thoughts and prayers will provide some comfort to you. Respectfully, Joe Rock, USCG (Ret.)
August 4, 2010
I lost a dear friend and brother in the passing of Shawn. I will miss his wit, his humor, his smile, his willingness to help others and above all his friendship. May God Bless You Shawn, Rest in Peace.
Matt B Mathews (ASTC) Ret.
Marco "Paco" Rodriguez
August 4, 2010
I feel blessed to have worked with Shawn in CLWTR and to have been his roommate. Shawn loved his family, friends and of course the guys from the AST shop. Shawn had a big heart and never said "No" to any challange on or off duty.
Linda, Thank you for keeping this "LARGER THAN LIFE RESCUE SWIMMER" in check all these years. Some of my best memories were with Shawn. God bless you and the girls. My family is praying for you during this difficult time.
Stefan Presslein
August 4, 2010
Dear Whaley Family,
My deepest sympathies for you loss.
I grew up with Shawn in L'Anse and remember him fondly. Playing hockey and sleeping outside in the backyard watching the stars.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Stefan Presslein
August 4, 2010
I regularly got into trouble in second grade for joking around with Shawn and two other boys at our desks. I am sad to hear of his death, but it is good to hear he has lived a joyous and generous life. Amy Carr (Macomb, IL)
Nafie Lika
August 4, 2010
My wish for the Whaley family is that the sadness they are experiencing with this great loss of a loved one is quickly replaced with happpy memories that were shared throughout their beautiful life together. My deepest sympathy and condolences.
Ilona Foran
August 4, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Michael Fox
August 4, 2010
Shawn, I know you know how proud your dad and mom were of you, It was always great to hear your dad talk about your rescues. I know God has a special place in His Heavanly Kingdom for a man like you, as you were so willing to save others over yourself. Our family is praying now for your family to give them strength in this time.
August 4, 2010
SHAWN,MAN AM I GONNA MISS YOU.ALWAYS COMING IN THE BARBER SHOP WITH ALL THAT GOO IN YOUR HAIR BEFORE I CUT IT,ALL THE JOKING AROUND IN THE SHOP AND THE GREAT JOB YOU DID ON FIXING MY BARBER CHAIR, I WILL ALWAYS KEEP IT.
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
SIMON DINNOCENZO
August 4, 2010
Shawn gonna miss ya buddy you allways make me laugh hope I made you too your the best ill see ya when I see ya gonna miss ya dude
Kellye Hubble
August 4, 2010
Dear Whaley Family,
Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
After receiving the news of Shawn’s passing this afternoon, my thoughts center on a wonderful friend, Michele Whaley. Although I didn’t know Shawn personally, I felt like I did whenever Michele would tell me stories about growing up with her brother.
With deepest sympathy, my heart goes out to Shawn’s family; his wife, children, parents, siblings, friends, each, and everyone who was part of Shawn Whaley’s life.
May God hold you and comfort you during your time of loss.
With Sympathy,
Kellye & Steve Hubble
Jerry Cangemi
August 4, 2010
Tom, Judy, Michelle and to his wife and daughters….
I can’t tell you how sad I was to hear about Shawn’s passing. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen him, or any of you....but always remember what a fun, and good, kid he was when you lived down the street from us. It was a good time when he and Mike played hockey together. I’m glad our families became friends because of it. May all those good memories you have of him help during this time in some way.
Terri/Tim Burke
August 4, 2010
To the entire Whaley Family,we send our condolences on the loss of Shawn.
He will forever be in our hearts. "Fair Winds and Following Seas." My husband had the pleasure of serving with him.
Shawn Sullivan
August 4, 2010
I had the pleasure of knowing Shawn for a great deal of time. Whenever I was going to a training op or special event regarding the AST rate I always wanted to know if Shawn was going to be there because I knew that it would be that much more enjoyable. He was truly a wonderful spirit that touched so many lives. May you rest in peace my friend you will be missed. I truly hope the Whaley family is able to find peace in this very difficult time. God bless you all.
ASTC Shawn D Sullivan
christopher McAdoo
August 4, 2010
One of those bigger than life characters we will all miss. I was not surprised to read of his courage and not surprised that he didn't speak of it. I am Proud to have known Shawn. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
Rich LaPlante
August 4, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to Shawn and his family in this time of sadness. I remember the fun we had playing hockey and riding bikes. A true hero and tremendous career.
Nancy Seavoy
August 4, 2010
Thoughts and Prayers to Family and Friends of a Most Couragious, Caring Hero. I will remember the smile he ALWAYS carried upon his face (while in gradeschool with him). Nancy Seavoy, (MI)
Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue Swimmer class 43-91
Mike Fish
August 4, 2010
I feel very fortunate to have had Shawn as a friend and a co-worker. He was a great person to be around both on and off duty. I have some great memories of my short 4 years I was able to spend with him. The bravery and selfless acts he displayed on the job were the definition of a Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue Swimmer. You will be missed, but never forgotten brother.
liz hittos
August 4, 2010
Blessings for a life well-lived and a family, God, and country well-served.
May his memory be eternal.
KC Bolton
August 4, 2010
Shawn will live on in the memories of many as a fun and kind-spirited presence, as well as a great person to work with. I feel lucky to have known him. My thoughts are with his family and the guys in the shop. Take care down there.
Jarrod Pickering
August 4, 2010
Rest in peace ASTCS
Charlie Huebner
August 4, 2010
To the Whaley's, my little brother Pat Doyle and Shawn grew up together, and share such a beautiful bond as friends, and brothers themselves. Shawn is remembered fondly as a member of our family. And we will miss him greatly! You are in our thoughts and prayers. Charlie Huebner and Family
Rene & Beverly Thibodeau
August 4, 2010
Dear Linda,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for the loss of Shawn.
May the support of your family and friends comfort you during your time of sorrow.
Brianne Hoover
August 4, 2010
I was given this extremely sad news by Jerry R. Hoover who served with Shawn for many years as a RS. My condolences for your loss, your family will be in my thoughts.
Bill Friday
August 4, 2010
Fair winds and following seas.
John Ruona
August 4, 2010
It was extremely sad to learn of Shawn's passing. My thoughts are with you, Shawn, and your family.
August 4, 2010
The boy I remember from grade school (C.J. Sullivan) truly turned out to be an amazing, courageous man. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Suzie (Sterbenz) Little
Port Saint Lucie, FL
Nancy Howell
August 4, 2010
Dear Linda, Whaley family and Sunset Grill Family,
No words would be appropriate to express my sadness in hearing of your loss. I hope that the love and prayers of those closest to you will somehow bring you some comfort. Remember, you will all see him again. My deepest condolences.
Nancy Howell (your book trading customer at Sunset Grill)
John Guthrie
August 4, 2010
Shawn thanks for being my friend. You made life fun and always an adventure. I will miss you!
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