Frank C. Whalen Sr., 75

CLAYTON - Frank C. Whalen Sr., of Clayton, died Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009, surrounded by his family at home. He was 75. Mr. Whalen was born Jan. 24, 1934, in Clayton, the son of the late James and Fannie Cole Whalen. Frank was a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served in Germany and patrolled the Russian border during the Korean War. Frank worked for Johnson Controls in Middletown, and retired after 40 years. He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 8801 in Smyrna. He was also a member of the David C. Harrison American Legion Post 14 in Smyrna. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Sheri Lynne Whalen; two brothers, James and Bill; and a sister, Betty. He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Ann Whalen; a son, Frank C. Whalen Jr. of Smyrna; granddaughter, Shannon M. Whalen, and her son, Nickolas J. Whalen of Georgetown; granddaughter, Brittany Leigh Whalen of Clayton; several nieces and nephews; and his dog Misty, who was always by his side. Visitation for friends and family will 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 12, in the Faries Funeral Chapel located at 29 South Main Street, Smyrna. Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to VFW Post #8801, 4741 Wheatleys Pond Road, Smyrna, DE 19977. Arrangements are by Faries Funeral Directors and Crematorium Inc., 29 South Main Street, Smyrna. Letters of condolence may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.