George Whelan — Toronto

WHELAN, George P. Passed peacefully away at home surrounded by his family on the morning of March 19, 2018 in his 88th year. Beloved husband of Gloria and loving father of Peter, cherished uncle to several generations of nieces and nephews. Son of Captain Jack (whom he adored) and Marcella Whelan, he is survived by his brother Ron (Betty-Lou) sister-in- law Marie and predeceased by brothers Patrick and John and sisters Agnes and Mary. George was born and raised in St Johns, NF and attended Memorial University, graduating in 1951. He set out for a career in Engineering that took him to further schooling in Halifax where he met and fell in love with Gloria. They were wed in short order and remained so until the day he passed – some 63 years later. George’s career took him on to Montreal and eventually Toronto where he rose to the rank of president of the Ontario Electric League in 1977. George remained in Ontario after his retirement but was a tireless and enthusiastic correspondent with his friends and family back home and abroad. He was a proud Newfoundlander to the core and would keep the younger generations aware of their roots and entertained with stories of back home. In all he did he was driven by a deep dedication to caring for his family. George loved his life, welcomed challenges with a smile, and worked hard with honesty and integrity. A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church on Friday, March 23 at 1pm with a celebration of his life to follow. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Parkinsons Canada or the Canadian Mental Health Association.