David J. Whaley

MIDDLETOWN - David J. Whaley, of Middletown, much loved husband of Kristine; father of Justin McCord (Tricia), and Shannan Baize (George); and grandfather of Jordan, Casey, and Kalyn, died from complications of a stroke he suffered in 2004, on Mon. May 23, 2011, at the age of 67. Born in Salisbury, Md, on Feb. 6, 1944, David was a 1962 graduate of William Penn High School, where he was captain of the football team and also played on the baseball and basketball teams. In 1962, David attended Chowan University where he played football and, in Nov. 1987, was inducted into the University's Football Hall of Fame. From Chowan, he transferred to the University of Connecticut and was the starting quarterback during the 1963 and 1964 seasons. After college, he played professional football for the former Wilmington Clippers for several years. David was employed with General Chemical for 23 years, retiring in 2003, and enjoyed a great year of retirement before his stroke. Golf became his passion and, as with all of his sports, he excelled. In addition to his wife of 26 years, children, and grandchildren, David is survived by his sisters, Shirley Nolan (Bill), Ina Morton (Gerry), Aileen Krewatch (Bill), and Jill McCorkle (Robin); brother, Jack Clymer (Kathy); sisters-in-law, Kathy Osgood and Karen Sylva and their families; and a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, Monroe Whaley; mother and stepfather, Evelyn and Jack Clymer; brother, Tommy Whaley; and mother and father-in-law, June and Bud Wroath. The family would like to thank the caring Nurses of 3E MICU and 3D Step-Down at Christiana Hospital for their care and consideration; Drs. Benninghoff, Patel, Leidig, and William Funk for their guidance, patience, and help through a very difficult time; Hope Kramer for her love and wonderful spirit in helping care for David at home over the last year; and Don "Duck" Thompson who was more like a brother and who called and came from North Carolina time and again to support David for nearly seven years. David will be loved and missed by many, including Mulligan, his constant companion and "morning paper getter." A private celebration of David's life for family and close friends will be decided in the near future. Donations in David's memory may be made to the National Stroke Association, 9707 E. Easter Lane, Suite B, Centennial, CO. 80112 (800-787-6537 / stroke.org). "It's hard to beat a person who never gives up." - Babe Ruth. To sign guest book, visit spicermullikin.com Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Homes & Crematory. 302-328-2213.