William (Bill) Whelan
05 Aug 1935 – 17 Dec 2019

Passed away surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, 17 December 2019 at The Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre in Ottawa. Beloved husband of Eleanor (nee Yard) Whelan, cherished father of Gary Whelan (Angela DeCaria), the late Glenn Whelan, and Glenna Whelan (Scott Lennon). Bill was adored by his grandchildren Oliver (Marissa), Joshua, Gary Junior (Lindsay), and Drew (Vanessa). Bill is also survived by his sister Jean German and great granddaughters Brianna, Sofia, Audrey and Chloe. He is predeceased by his parents Martin and Mary Ellen (nee Kerrivan) Whelan, sister Helen Heath and brother Gerald Whelan.

Bill had a distinguished 34-year career serving in the Canadian Armed Forces throughout Canada and overseas. The culmination of his career was being awarded the Order of Military Merit.

In retirement, Bill focused attention on his two true loves, his family and his garden. Even as Alzheimer’s robbed him of his health, he always enjoyed visits with loved ones. He will be fondly remembered by those lucky enough to have known him, especially by Eleanor, his wife of 62 years.

Immediate family will gather in January 2020 for a Catholic funeral mass.