Friday, April 9, 10:30 AM
Age 88 of Edina, MN, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2021. Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Ann S. Whelan and his parents, John and Marie Whelan. He is survived by children Tracy (Sam) Cefaratti, Sue (Scott) Williams, John (Pamela) Whelan, Molly (Jeff) Thuma, Trish (Dan) Barrett; grandchildren Katie (Kevin) Hardy, Sammy Cefaratti, Mary (Pat) Spalding, Emily (Drew) Karel, Grace and Laura Williams, Josie, Lilly and Tom Thuma, Patrick, Meghan and Bridget Barrett; great grandchild Owen Hardy; and his sister, Lois Whelan.
Jack was born and raised in Mt. Lebanon, PA. After graduating from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1950, he attended Villanova University, graduating in 1954 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Post-college, Jack served in the US Army for two years, and then moved to Omaha, NE for a Sales job with Mine Safety Appliances Co. This job launched a successful career in Sales and Sales Management, and led him to 3M Company where he worked for 32 years until his retirement.
While living in Omaha, Jack met and married the lovely Ann Strang. After marriage, they moved to St. Louis, where their five children were born. From St. Louis, Jack’s career took them to Western Springs, IL, for ten years and then to Edina, MN. Jack’s greatest joy was his family and his love was felt by all. He took great care of Ann and his children and was a proud and supportive father and grandfather, creating many wonderful memories through the years. In addition to family, his passions included golf, bridge, summers at Portage Lake, MI, travel, reading and time with friends. Jack’s outgoing personality, optimism, and love of life served him well through his years. In his words, “Life has been good for Jack Whelan”. Rest in peace Dad – we love you!
Special thanks to English Rose Suites and Moments Hospice for their care.
Mass of Christian Burial Friday, April 9, 10:30AM at Our Lady of Grace Church, Edina MN. Livestream link below. Private interment at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Operation Smile, Caring and Sharing Hands, or Catholic Charities.