Elizabeth Whelan of South San Francisco passed away peacefully January 10, surrounded by her family. She was 100 year's old. Born in New York City to Christian and Camille Mickelsen she was a 3rd generation New Yorker. Elizabeth often said she experienced most of her night life before she was twelve as the Coppola. Aunts included her in their nightly escapades in the 20's. In 1936 Elizabeth married an Irish Gentleman from Tipperary in New York City . They later followed other family member to the West Coast eventually settling in San Francisco in 1946 after the war. A mother of 7 she went on to pursue her interests in Painting and language classes. She was a super loyal fan of the Golden State Warriors. Elizabeth was best known for her homemade bread which she baked weekly for most of her life. Her Grandchildren loved it hot out of the oven. She was a devout member of All Souls Parish in So. San Francisco and especially loved the Spanish Mass! Elizabeth was kind and caring to people from all walks of life and often invited them into her home to help them. Loving mother of Elizabeth Whelan, Margret Heede, Denise Whelan, Catherine Mederiros, John Whelan and the late Carl & Kevin Whelan. She will be missed by all especially 50 of her Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren and Great Great Grandchild! She is pre-deceased by her Husband Denis Whelan, her sons Carl and Kevin Whelan.

Friends may attend a Mass of Resurrection, 12noon, Fri., Jan. 17th All Souls Church, corner of Walnut and Miller Avenues, So.SF. Committal Holy Cross Cemetery. In memory of Elizabeth Christina Whelan please contribute to her favorite charity, Doctors Without Borders, 333 7th Ave., 2nd Floor, NY, NY, 1001-5004. Condolences may also be made at www.gardenchapel885.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jan. 14 to Jan. 17, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Elizabeth Whelan

8 Entries

February 10, 2014

I was at the house today, so quiet and felt your spirit along with so many memories..luv,daughter Elizabeth

Sandra Schenone

February 6, 2014

Grandma, you touched so many lives. I love you very much.

Elizabeth whelan

January 20, 2014

Thinking of you,mom , up there in that heavenly place,Elizabeth

January 18, 2014

So sorry to miss the funeral for Elizabeth. She was such a dear and kind friend to my mom. I am sure they are catching up right now.

The Mickelsen's 1930's NYC to SFO Aunt Elizabeth Uncle Charlie and Christian (Buddy) Mickelsen

Christian Mickelsen

January 17, 2014

I can remember as a young lad, going to my Aunt Elizabeth's house in South City with my Dad and Uncle Charlie & Al Shanks(Aunt Elizabeth's step father) to help paint the interior of her home. Al Shanks was in charge of the one gallon of red wine. Afterwards we would all have a great home cooked Aunt Elizabeth dinner with her wonderful home made bread. The three told old stories that only siblings could share. She was the best person in my world, my dad's sister, they were so very different. That must have been why we always got along so well. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. She shall be missed but never forgotten in all our harts. Cheers... Love Christian, Christian Brian & Claudia Mickelsen

Always a good time at Grandma Shanks house, with brother Charlie and sister in law Ann

Alice Mickelsen

January 17, 2014

Aunt Elizabeth was a remarkable woman who I remember was devoted to her family. When I was very small she gave my sister, Robin and I the book, "The Little Prince" which we loved and cherished for generations. I know her family was waiting for her on the other side. God Speed.

Charley Ross

January 16, 2014

Goodby Mrs. Whelan. Meishan and I are sorry we didn't get by to say so long. I have fond memories of my breakfast stops after serving mass and then proceeding to Magnolia Ave Grammer School down the street. I remember the smell of freshly baked goods. My brother, Joe, lied when he said I bought my first car (1933 Plymouth) from you and Denny. You folks gave it to me with the stipulation that I drive your daughter, Denise, to school which I gladly did. (secret crush). I have a sense that there is a great reunion going on right now. Our condolences to all the family. Ma Whelan, you were a great woman.

Joe and Pam Ross

January 15, 2014

God Speed Ma Whelan. I remember many fine times at the Whelan house in my formative years. I will always remember the smell of bread baking as I entered the house. My brother purchased Denny's car when he passed. The adventures with Carl and Kevin remain fresh in my memory. Mrs. Whelan was my fathers' Godmother when he converted. May she attain a "high place" in heaven.

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