Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
Robert WHELAN Obituary
Honorable (ret)
New York Supreme Court Judge, Former Buffalo Comptroller, September 15, 2023. Beloved husband of his devoted wife Debra (Rafferty). Father of Paula Madison and Amy (Jeremy) Guenet, grandfather of Ava Whelan and Ana Sophia and Thomas Guenet; stepfather to Jennifer, Melissa and Ashlyn and their families. Son of the late Robert J. Whelan and Margaret (Southard) Whelan. Brother of Mary Halldin and Peggy Page, Gerald, Paul and Kevin Whelan and the late Patricia Parker, James, John, and Thomas Whelan; and numerous nieces and nephews. The Honorable Robert E. Whelan, received a bachelor's degree from Canisius College and went on to complete a J.D. at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law. He was elected the youngest Comptroller of the City of Buffalo in 1976 at the age of 32. He won reelection three times and remained in that position until 1989. He was elected as a justice of the New York State Supreme Court in the Eighth Judicial District in 1990 and served in that position for 14 years. A memorial service to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Honorable Whelan will be held in Florida at a later date.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert WHELAN
Maria and Andrew Garrity
March 2, 2024
Bob touched many people's lives is such a positive way. I am very saddened by his passing. He made substantial contributions to our community. I had the pleasure of working with him at Buffalo City Hall. We all called him "Uncle Bob". He will be well missed. Our prayers are with Bob, Debra and the Whelan family.
Peter A Reese
October 26, 2023
We always found Bob to be a straight shooter and a consumate professional. May he rest in peace.
Deborah Hayes
September 30, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. I am Eileen O´Brien´s daughter. I have been doing research on my mother´s heritage. I think the Honorable Whelan is part of my mother´s heritage. I remember she talked about the Whelan´s and the Southard family. I didn´t know the Honorable Whelan but I know how strong his Irish heritage was.
Steve Talty
September 24, 2023
I would like to offer my condolences to the loving family of a wonderful childhood friend. Bobby and I had many good times and laughs together. God grant him peace .
Jim & Cathy Campbell
September 24, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Robert Fine
September 24, 2023
Bob and I were classmates at UB Law School and remained friendly thereafter. He was smart and had a great personality and sense of humor. He also had good political instincts which helped him rise to Buffalo Comptroller and Supreme Court Justice. I was saddened to learn of his passing. My condolences to the family.
Robert Fine
Charles Flynn
September 24, 2023
Thx for being a loyal family friend for years. RIP Bob
Charlie Flynn
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in Robert WHELAN's name
Memorial Events
for Robert WHELAN
How to support Robert's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Robert WHELAN's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
