Shawn Patrick Whaley

WHALEY, , Shawn P. U.S. Coast Guard Senior Chief Aviation Survival Technician (ASTCS), 43, of Clearwater, FL died July 31, 2010. Shawn was born in Detroit, MI on March 5, 1967. He graduated from Kofa High School in Arizona in 1985. Shawn enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in Aug. 1988 and served for 22 years. Shawn has received two Coast Guard Air Medals by the President of the United States for his bravery and courage. Most notably on Oct. 1, 1992, he rescued 12 crew members clinging to floating wreckage from the sunken vessel Roatan Express 60 miles west of Ft. Myers. He deployed from the helicopter into dark debris-strewn and fuel covered eight foot seas. He hoisted all 12 crew members and then another after a second deployment in a raft separately from the 12 persons. On March 13, 1993 during the height of "The Storm of the Century" in gale forced winds, assisted three people on board the fishing vessel Erin Moore which was sinking. Shawn deployed into tumultuous seas and rescued all three persons. He has also earned the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, two Humanitarian Service Medals and seven Good Conduct Medals. Shawn was adored by all that were fortunate enough to know him. He was the type of guy that would always put others before himself. He was generous, loving and protective of his family and friends more than anything and always cherished his Coast Guard family. He was truly one of a kind "the life of the party" and always has a comforting smile that made you feel welcome! He touched all of our hearts and will not be forgotten. Shawn is survived by his wife, Lindita; his daughters, Asije - 15 and Kiley - 9; his father, Tom; his mother, Judy; and his sister, Michele. Visitation will be from 11 am until service time at Noon Thursday Aug. 5, 2010 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1199 Highland Ave. NE, Largo, FL 33774. Relatives and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend. Burial will follow in Serenity Gardens Memorial Park, Largo. We would like to personally thank all of the shipmates of Air Station Clearwater and the Coast Guard for their help and support. Semper Paratus! In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Coast Guard Foundation 394 Taugwonk Road Stonington, CT 06378, phone 860-535-0786, for the ASTCS Shawn Whaley Children's fund. www.mossfeasterlargo.com 727-562-2080

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