John R. Whelan

John R. Whelan, 94, of Duluth, MN, passed away on July 9, 2026 at Keystone Bluffs Assisted living facility.

He was born on March 1, 1932, in Duluth, MN, to Raymond John Whelan and Olivette Marie Whelan (Johnson). John graduated from Duluth Central High School in 1950. He worked for the railroad before joining the Air Force in 1952. He retired from the Air Force reserve but retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Marine Corps reserve. He flew for Eastern Airlines and retired as a Captain in 1989.

He volunteered as a Boy Scout leader. He volunteered to fly 500 hours for Explorer Scouts and was presented with an award by Chuck Yeager. He enjoyed cross-country skiing until age 90 and hiking until age 93. Every Wednesday, you could find him opening up Portman Square for coffee and doughnuts with his friends, with whom he grew up in the East End. He took many classes for seniors at UMD.

John was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Whelan, his mother, Olivette Whelan (Johnson), and his brothers, Clarence Whelan and William Whelan.

He is survived by his loving wife Jacqueline (Plant) Whelan, his four children Helen (Mark) Wayer, John (Corinne) Whelan, Bill (Maria Rogness) Whelan and Jim (Kelly) Whelan. His seven grandchildren Eric Wells, Heather Benedict, Andy Whelan, Michael Whelan. Brian Whelan, Jennifer Whelan and Nick Whelan. His five great grandchildren Caleb, Kinley, Hazel, Paige and Zoey.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11am on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home, 3208 W. 3rd Street, Duluth. Burial at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.