Michael Robert Whalen Sr.
September 27, 1955 - August 2, 2023
Ventura, it is with great sadness in our hearts to announce that Michael R Whalen — devoted husband, loving father — passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023 surrounded by his wife and children.
Born in Bristol, Pennsylvania, Michael, fondly known as Mike, moved to California in 1977 after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Heavy Equipment Operator. His experience and training eventually parlayed into a career as a Mobile Crane Operator. A member of the Operating Engineers Local #12, he worked for crane rental companies “T&T Truck and Crane” and “Ventura Crane”. Mike was known for making things “fly” at job sites around the county and state. He made a great number of friends in the business and will be remembered for being safe and knowledgeable at his trade.
Mike enjoyed living on the California coast and was an avid explorer of the outdoors. He took particular interest in hiking The Sierra Nevada, having summited its tallest mountain, Mount Whitney, 3 times. Mike was a dedicated fan of the Ford Mustang, and always had one in the garage to show off. He enjoyed “wrenching” on his cars and around the house, and was a true Craftsman.
Michael is survived by wife Sheila, four children Kristal, Ryan, Michael and Madelyn, and grandson Ethan. He is also survived by his mother Madeline, sister Colleen, two brothers Mark and Mitch. He was predeceased by his father Robert, brother Matthew, and daughter Marissa.
He was a man of his word, led by example, and will be greatly missed. Semper Fi.
Family and friends are invited to a Most Holy Rosary to be recited at 9:45am Saturday, August 12, 2023 in Mission Basilica San Buenaventura, 211 E. Main Street Ventura, a funeral mass will follow in Church at 10am. Interment with military honors will then follow at Carpinteria Distict Cemetery, Carpinteira.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, 757 E. Main Street Ventura.
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