James R. Whalen II

James R. Whalen II
Bay City, Michigan
James R. Whalen II, age 76, an avid hunter, outdoorsman, and proud United States Marine Corps veteran, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Saginaw with his family by his side. James was born on April 9, 1949, in Bay City, Michigan, to James R. and Ruth C. (Wager) Whalen. He graduated from T.L. Handy High School in 1967.
James honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1969, earning the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Rifle Marksman Shooting Badge. Following his service, he built a successful career in construction and roofing. He owned and operated Whalen Construction for many years and retired in 2000.
On April 17, 1971, James married the love of his life, Yvonne M. Wackerle, who survives him. He was a former member of First Baptist Church in Essexville and a life member of both the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the Disabled American Veterans.
James found joy in the outdoors-hunting, spending time in the woods, and relaxing at his cabin up north. He loved playing cards with family and friends and cherished every moment spent with those he loved.
Surviving are his wife, Yvonne; and their three loving daughters: Tanya (Brandon) Howell, Tracy Whalen (Gregg Umphrey), and Tammy (Ben) Reinsch; along with his grandson, Cooper James. James was predeceased by his parents, James and Ruth; his in-laws, Clare and Doris Wackerle and Florine Wackerle; his sister, Kathleen (Joe) Winchell; and his brother-in-law, Terryl Wackerle.
Family and friends may visit at Squires Funeral Home, 211 North Henry Street, Bay City, Michigan 48706, on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service for James will begin at 7:00 p.m. with Pastor Rick Milks presiding. Interment will take place Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Please feel free to share a story, photo or leave an expression of sympathy on James Tribute Wall of his obituary @ sqiresfuneralhome.com