Robert G. Whalen

Robert G. Whalen, 86, of Burlington, passed away on March 11, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife and his five sons.

Born December 10, 1936, in Burlington, Bob was the son of George William and Marion Frances (Theis) Whalen. Bob married Elizabeth W. Schleif on April 18, 1959.

He graduated from Burlington Catholic in 1954 and became one of the first employees of the Doran & Ward Printing company, operating presses for 46 years before retiring in 2000. 

Bob focused his life on family and setting an example of service, tolerance, acceptance, and fairness. He encouraged education and continuous learning. A handyman, he could fix just about anything, or he would learn how. When he wasn’t working on a house project or the family cars, he was always willing to play catch in the back yard or sit down for a long religious discussion. He loved farming with his uncle Bill and his wife's family.

He was a member and cantor for St. John Catholic Church and actively served in the St. Vincent DePaul Society. He was an officer, coach, and caretaker for the Western Little League for many years. 

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Elizabeth of Burlington and five sons, Mark (Lori) Whalen of Burlington, David Whalen of Saginaw, MI, John (Dawn) Whalen of Kansas City, MO, Brian (Sheila) Whalen of Urbandale, IA, and Steven (Corynn) Whalen of Vinton, IA; his sister Patricia Bullinger of Burlington; 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law Lisa (David) Whalen.

Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.

The memorial service for Mr. Whalen will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street with Very Rev. Father Marty Goetz officiating. A time of food and fellowship will be held at St. John's Church cafeteria following the service. Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Vincent DePaul Society or the Southeast Iowa
Regional Hospice House.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.