Michael L. Whelan, age 90, of Lewiston, NY passed away on October 20, 2020.  He was born in Ridgway, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Arthur and Katherine (Bonini) Whelan.  He was raised by his late Aunt Martha and Uncle Frank Eagan.  He was a graduate of Ridgeway High School.

Mr. Whelan joined the United States Navy on June 18, 1948. While in the navy he served as an Engineman Third Class on the USS Cosair, a Tench-class submarine, from 1949 until his honorable discharge in 1952. In a letter dated November 23 1951 and signed by LJG R. E. Crispi, USN,  EN3 Whelan's navel career was described as "… "Qualified for Submarine Torpedo Boat Duty" on 13 September 1949. His record further shows his "Proficiency in Rating" and "Leadership" marks have been uniformly excellent and that his "Conduct" mark was perfect."  LJG Crispin further stated in the letter "I am pleased to state from personal observation that Whelan's attitude, performance of duty and dependability have been excellent. He is a completely favorable reflection of the high standard of the Submarine Force of the United States Navy."

Upon discharge for the U. S. Navy. Michael attended and graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.  with a degree in Foreign Service.  He then went on to a career with the Sears, Roebuck and Co. that lasted over forty years.  While with Sears he was a store manager in Syracuse, NY, Greenfield, MA, Concord, NH, Burlington, VT, Niagara Falls, NY and Eastern Hills Mall.  He was a member of the Niagara Falls Country Club for over forty years.  Michael enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Mr. Whelan is survived by his wife Eleanor (nee Charles) Whelan whom he married on September 4, 1964.  He is also survived by his children Susan (Andy) Amour, Kim Ready, Chris Whelan, Valerie Alberti, and Michael M. (Suzanne Parmet) Whelan. He was the loving grandfather of Sean (Erin) Ready, Rex (Christy) Ready, Paul and Peter Alberti, Allison and Alexander Green, Clair and Nicole Whelan, and Jaxon-Beck Whelan.  He was the loving great grandfather to Rosaline and Oliver Ready, Reagan and Flynn Ready, and Kingston and Kiara Green. He was the brother of the late Nancy (late Col. Al) La Barbera.  Michael cherished his friendship with Lyn and John Dyster, and many, many more.

A Private funeral will be held at the convenience of the family. Inurnment will take place in Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne MA.  Memorials in Mr. Whelan's memory may be made to the Parkinson Foundation www.parkinson.org .  Arrangements by M. J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.