Jerome “Jerry” William Whalen

Jerome “Jerry” William Whalen, 68, of rural Seneca, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving familyafter a brief battle with metastatic melanoma.

Born on October 20, 1957, in Aurora, Illinois, to Bill and Carole Whalen, Jerry graduated from Newark High School with the Class of 1975 and from Joliet Junior College in 1977. In 1984 he began his long career at Newark Farmers Grain, which later became part of CHS. Starting in fuel delivery, he advanced to general manager just two years later and faithfully served in that role for the next 40 years until his illness in January 2026. Colleagues and farmers remembered him as a man of exceptional work ethic and integrity who truly understood their needs and went above and beyond to provide honest, gracious service. He often joked that he was “the biggest farmer around” because of the practical advice he freely shared.

Jerry was a devoted member of West Lisbon Church, where he served as a deacon. He was widely admired for his quiet faithfulness and sacrificial service. Those who knew him best spoke of his steady Christian character, his willingness to step forward in humble acts of worship and leadership, even when it took him out of his comfort zone, and the genuine encouragement he offered to others. His life reflected a deep love for God and for people, demonstrated through consistent, behind-the-scenes faithfulness rather than seeking attention.

Above all, Jerry was a loving and invested husband, father, and Papa. High school sweethearts, he and Lois were married on August 11, 1979, at West Lisbon Church and shared 46 years together. One of his favorite memories was spending time with his entire family in the Smoky Mountains, a trip he always looked forward to and the last big family vacation they all shared. He led his family with quiet strength and left a lasting legacy of integrity, perseverance, and godly example that will continue to bless his children and grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Lois Whalen; his children, Ryan (Stephanie) Whalen and Megan (Tim) Gunier; his six beloved grandchildren, Emma Gunier, Jack Gunier, Ainsley Whalen, Luke Whalen, Eloise Whalen, and Liam Whalen; his siblings Judy Kelly (Scott Mickelson), Jim (Brenda) Whalen, Jolene (Dave) Ciolino, and Jeff (Wendy) Whalen; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law Andy Thompson, Sheldon (Nancy) Thompson, David (Suzanne) Thompson, Gloria (Rollin) Varness, and Cindy Whalen along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Carole Whalen; his brother, John Whalen; his parents-in-law, Adolph and Elma Thompson; and his sister-in-law, Kristi Thompson.

A memorial service celebrating Jerry’s life will be held at West Lisbon Church, 14381 Joliet Rd, Newark, IL 60541, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to West Lisbon Church or to Journey to Restoration.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Jerry's memorial page.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-0700)