John Maxwell Whalen

John M. Whalen, 78, began his journey with our Lord and Savior on April 14, 2012 at NHC (National Health Care) surrounded by his loving family. He had recently suffered a massive stroke. John was born on December 28, 1933 and lived a full and meaningful life filled with love, adventure, and good stories. He graduated from the Ohio State University in 1957 with a degree in Electrical Engineering and remained a faithful and ardent Buckeye throughout his life. He was commissioned into the United States Navy in June 1957. Lieutenant Whalen served aboard the Destroyer, the USS Stribling DD867, out of Norfolk, Va where he was a Legal Officer and Gunnery Officer. John retired as Senior Vice President of Nevamar Corporation. John displayed his strong character, integrity, fairness, loyalty, and dedication while volunteering in the communities in which he lived. John helped form the Central Maryland Swim League in 1972, where today thousands of children from 6 to 18 years swim each summer. He also served as the President of the league the first two years. John volunteered for the local, state, and national Senior Games for twelve years where he was also the proudest fan and biggest support for his wife, Nana. John also served as the PTA President at Benfield Elementary School in Severna Park, Maryland. John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Nana Whalen; son Dr. Timothy Whalen and his wife Terri, daughter and her husband Maria and Gary Klein, and daughter Angela Whalen. Also six grandchildren: Lisa, Tom, Patricia, and Erin Whalen; and Jarrett and Justin Klein. As well as his sister and brother-in-law Patricia and Carl Borror. A Memorial Service will be held Friday April 20, 2012 at 11:00 AM at the Bluffton United Methodist Church. Everyone is invited.