John Sidney Whelen

John "Jack" Whelen passed away peacefully Monday, June 4, 2012, in Morro Bay, with his wife, Mary at his side. Born in 1917 to Sidney and Virginia Whelen, Jack grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. He obtained his education at St. Andrews prep school in Delaware, Princeton University and later, U.C. Davis. As World War II approached, Jack enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps, where he served until the War''s end. As a young officer, his assignment to March Field Air Base brought him to California, where he met his lovely Mary Roberts - they married in the March Field Chapel in 1943. In the early years of their marriage, Jack pursued ranch management experience, first on a thoroughbred horse breeding farm, then on a dairy farm. However, as his family grew, he decided to put his engineering studies to work in the aerospace industry in Southern California. In retirement, he and Mary purchased an apple farm on Highway 41 West, where Jack raised organic apples, sheep and poultry, and made fresh apple cider every fall. He particularly loved bringing the small farm experience to children. For many years, Jack was very involved with his kids in 4-H Club as well as the AFS Intercultural student exchange program. Jack and Mary also loved to travel, and took many adventurous trips over the years. A few of Jack''s favorite things were good literature, rural living, working on projects with friends, his loyal dog, Sadie ''¦ and the ocean. Jack leaves behind his wife, Mary; four children Carol, Susan, Clyde and Patti; honorary daughter, Nga Nguyen and family; granddaughter, Tracy; sister, Billie Brittingham and extended family in Maryland. He was predeceased by his twin sister, Virginia. In his remembrance, a gathering of friends will be held later this summer. Please call (805) 528-3073 for details.