Donald Lee Whalen

Fair Oaks, CA – Donald L Whalen, 84, passed away Easter Sunday, April 16th, 2017.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Beverly J Whalen. He leaves his daughter Terri Whalen Guillen and her daughters Katrina and Casandra; son Greg Whalen and his wife Janine and daughter Sierra; son Brian Whalen and his daughter Hannah Jane; and many close friends.

Born in Crawfordsville Indiana, he was an avid traveler and resident of the world, and eventually settled in Fair Oaks, California.

He was an accomplished football and baseball player in high school, which is also where he met his wife Beverly, the head cheerleader. After high school, he was the first of his family to go to college, attending Ball State University in Indiana and earning a degree in Education in 1954. After graduating, he joined the Air Force, and eventually earned the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, receiving numerous honors in his 25 years of service.

He continued his education in 1964, earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from University of Pittsburg, and then a Masters of Science in System Management from University of Southern California in 1980. He also received a certificate in Management from Duke University in 1987.

Sports was an important part of Don’s life, and he was an avid baseball, football, tennis, and golf player throughout the years, as well as coached his sons’ sports teams when they were young.

Don was a Deacon at his church and always an active volunteer. He had a passion for Dixieland jazz, and volunteered with the Sacramento Jazz Festival for many years. He was also an active member of Sons in Retirement, and loved playing Bridge with his friends.

He will be missed and remembered by many. There will be a Visitation Monday, April 24, from 4-7pm at Mt. Vernon Memorial Park, and a Celebration of Life Tuesday, April 25th at 10am at Carmichael Presbyterian Church, 5645 Marconi Ave., Carmichael, CA. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a meaningful charity in his honor.