A funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023 for 57-year-old Donald “Donnie” E. Whelan, Jr. of Sparta, Illinois, who passed away at 6:16 a.m., Monday, December 25, 2023 at Sparta Terrance, Sparta, Illinois.
He was born March 16, 1966, in Belleville, Illinois, a son of Donald E. Whelan Sr. who survives and Janet Caroline (nee Burmester) Whelan, Sr. who preceded him in death.
He is survived by three siblings: Dwayne (Karen) Whelan, Douglas (Nancy) Whelan amd Delana Whelan; seven nieces and nephews: Gavin Braun, Merideth Whelan, William Whelan, Benjamin Whelan, Derek Whelan, Julia Whelan and Jenna Whelan; several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
He was also preceded in death by a brother: Darrick Whelan.
He worked in the workshop at the Human Service Center for many years.
Donnie was a member of the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Evansville, Illinois.
Donnie participated in the Special Olympics and competed in the softball throw.
He spent his time listening to Elvis and watching TV.
He enjoyed going shopping, eating at McDonald’s and attending family gatherings.
Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Friday and 10-11 a.m. Saturday at the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Evansville, Ill.
A funeral for 57-year-old Donald “Donnie” E. Whelan, Jr. of Sparta, Ill. will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Evansville, Ill. The Rev. Randy Fischer will officiate.
Interment will be in the St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery in Evansville, Illinois.
Memorials may be made to family wishes.