Thomas Jerome "Jerry" Whelan
Thomas Jerome "Jerry" Whelan
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Thomas Whelan Obituary
Louisville - Jerry Whelan, 84, passed away on December 11, 2023, in Louisville, Kentucky. He was born on December 2, 1939, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Thomas and Doraine Whelan. He was preceded in his death by sisters Rosie Davis, Betty Dermondy, Grace Skidmore, and Patricia Charles.
Jerry was a wonderful husband, father, and friend to all. He grew up in a close-knit Catholic family and served as an altar boy at Maryhurst and St. Cecilia in the Portland neighborhood from the young age of five. Jerry graduated from Flaget High School and went on to work at Dupont for 50 years, where he held various positions, including pump mechanic.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Alma Whelan, his brothers John Whelan and Joe Whelan, and his children: Kim Philpot (Allen), Craig Whelan (Valerie), Karen Kaberle (Rick), Marty Whelan (Tiffany), and Larissa Reece (Chris). He was also a cherished grandfather to Joshua Lee, Lindsay Smith, Brian Whelan, Jacob Kaberle, Corey Whelan, Natasha Moberly, Benjamin Reece, Colin Whelan, Dallas Whelan, and Erin Whelan. Additionally, Jerry was a proud great-grandfather to Alyvia Whelan, Tyler Whelan, Zoey Whelan, Khloe Whelan, Ethan Lee, Camden Lee, Sawyer Lee, Kate Smith Augustine Reece, and Margaret Moberly. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on December 20, 2023, from noon to 2 p.m., followed by a service at 2 p.m. at Hurstbourne Christian Church, located at 601 Nottingham Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222. The service will be officiated by his grandson, Reverend Benjamin Reece.
Should you wish to make a donation in Jerry's memory, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to Hosparus Health, 6200 Dutchmans Ln., Louisville, KY 40205. The family is thankful for Hosparus support and the exceptional care provided by Tricia Cobbler APRN, who lovingly cared for Jerry for over three years.
Jerry will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Shawn Lee
February 9, 2024
I have just learned that Jerry passed in December after being sick for a long time. I first met Jerry when his children were very young. Jerry and Alma were such friendly, kind and hard working people who raised four bright and likable kids. I always felt they were all fortunate to have each other, and I hope good memories of their lives will be in their hearts always.
Tricia Cobler
December 15, 2023
It was such a privilege to care for Jerry !! I loved his beautiful smile and sweet personality!! He will be missed
Ann Christensen
December 15, 2023
Condolences and prayers for the entire Whelan family. I liked Jerry from the moment I met him. His smile was infectious and Alma is his perfect match.
Theresa Raidy
December 15, 2023
Jerry always had such a special twinkle in his eye when he smiled. I love remembering the sweet smiles he would exchange with Margaret during Sunday morning service.
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Pat Eve
December 14, 2023
I worked with Jerry at DuPont where we affectionately called him Dad. He was a fantastic mechanic and even better man. I felt honored to know him.
Kenneth Gary
December 14, 2023
My wife, Bonnie and I send our condolences and prayers to his loved ones. I never worked with him but was around him at times. Jerry always had a smile and while talking he made you smile. He and Jim Crowder would always have a fun spat who ever had the most years at Dupont. Psalm 23.4 "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
John hammond
December 14, 2023
We had a whole crew in Freon that called Jerry Dad. We were all younger and if we got out of line he didn't hesitate to tell us the straighten up. Lovell Emery and I stopped speaking to each other over something stupid and he took us aside and made us shake hands and start speaking again. We respected him so much that we had to listen.
Richard Zurkuhlen
December 14, 2023
I worked with Jerry at DuPont he always had a smile on his face and a good encouraging word. I know he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Rich Zurkuhlen
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