MIchael Charles Whalen

Michael Charles Whalen passed away Sunday morning, September 3rd. Born in Springfield, Illinois on December 12th, 1937, the son of Charles and Elinor Whalen (both deceased). He was the husband of Sandie Whalen for 52 years and father of son Timothy M. Whalen, daughter Wendy J. Wise (husband Eric Wise), and daughter Suzanne K. Kell (husband Tim Kell). Proud grandfather of Madilyn Kell, Murphy Kell, Declan Whalen, Sarah Wise, and Adam Wise. Brother of Sharon Starling and Jane Korba, and the uncle of several nieces and nephews.

A lifelong resident of Springfield and diehard Cubs fan -- one of his greatest moments was watching the Cubs win the World Series in 2016. He was also a proud Irishman who celebrated every St. Patrick's Day by singing Irish songs, along with close friend Bob Clark, at their favorite pub.

He attended Springfield College in Illinois and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He started his journalism career at the Illinois State Register and retired from the Illinois Office of Education after many years.

He enjoyed bowling, reading, playing the piano and singing in the choir at Christ the King Church. He loved spending time with his family and the neighborhood's Friday Lunch Bunch.

Services are under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home, Springfield. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 8, 2017 from 9:30 am until time of the funeral mass at 11:30 am at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield. Father Joseph Ring will officiate the mass. Burial will follow at Old Salem/Riddle Hill Cemetery, Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lincoln Library Foundation, 326 S. 7th St., Springfield, IL 62703.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.