Robert Michael Whelan Sr.

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Robert Michael Whelan Sr. of Phillipston, MA passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 12, 2020, at the age of 70. He died peacefully at UMass Medical Center in Worcester, MA. with his wife Denise and their children by his side.

Robert was born in Boston, MA on February 23, 1950, to Donna Ouesley and John Whelan. Shortly after Robert’s 17th birthday, he enlisted into the United States Army as an Infantryman where he fought and served bravely during the Vietnam War.

After his service in Vietnam, Robert continued to honorably serve his country with the United States Air Force.

While serving his country, Robert met and instantly fell in love with his wife, Denise (LoBello). They married on December 3, 1973, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Bronx, New York.

Robert worked at Granite State Concrete in Milford, NH. for over 20 years as a diesel mechanic. He loved to hunt and fish and has passed down that love to his children. He was a man of very few words, but we all knew how much he loved his family.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Denise Whelan, their four children, and twelve grandchildren. He leaves behind his oldest son, Robert Michael Whelan Jr. and his wife, Wendy Whelan of Townsend, MA and their six children; Kayla Lambert, Gavyn Whelan, Patrick Whelan, Caroline Whelan, Kayla Blackwell, and Lauren Duval, Anthony Whelan and his partner Rick Wheeler of Meriden, CT., Christopher Whelan and his wife Amanda Whelan of Brunswick ME and their sons Chase and Logan Whelan and his daughter Samantha Fox and her husband Bryan Fox of Lunenburg, MA. and their four children Gianna, Nolan, Elyse, and Evan Fox.

He is also survived by his older brother John J. Whelan of Gilmanton, NH., and sisters Karen Smith of Port Charlotte, FL., Barbara Vindici, and Donna Kerrigan.

Robert was predeceased by his father John, his mother Donna, his brother Thomas James and his mother in law, Carmela Chillino.

Honoring Robert’s wishes, there will be a private family celebration of life gathering. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The New England Center and Home for Veterans.