Mary M. Whelan

Mary M. Whelan (nee Welsby), age 72, of Dyer, formerly of East Chicago, passed away on October 27, 2013 after her 17 year courageous battle with cancer. Mary was born on January 15, 1941 in Chicago, IL. Mary is survived by her husband of 48 years Timothy and their five children: Bridget (Tim) Scheer, Michael (Lori) Whelan, Sean (Cindy) Whelan, Terrence (Renee) Whelan, and Kathleen (Matthew) Heiss; Eleven Grandchildren: Greg, Clara, Sarah, John Scheer; Shannon and Megan Whelan; Cori, Ryan, and Matthew Whelan; Molly and Morgan Whelan. Sisters: Suzi (Larry) Graefen, Jean (James) Ladd, loving friend Linda Matson, and faithful dog Ginger, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Mary was preceded in death by her parents John Ralston and Vivian Welsby and her brother Roy Welsby. Mary began a career in banking starting with First National Bank in East Chicago that would continue as the bank changed names throughout the years. She retired from PNC Bank in Munster, IN. She will always be remembered for her warm smile and welcoming manner. Mary’s most important career and the one she loved the most was that of loving wife, devoted mother, and caring grandmother. Mary loved life and worked hard to care and provide for all those around her. Mary was always ready for an adventure especially when it included her friends, family, or grandchildren. Her favorite vacation spot was at the home of her parents on Washington Island, WI. The generosity and unconditional love she showed for her children and grandchildren will never be forgotten and the memories she made will live in our hearts forever. Visitation will be on Wednesday, October 30, 2013 from 2:00-8:00 PM at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Avenue Munster, IN. and on Thursday from 9:30-10:00 AM at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 31, 2013 at 10:00 AM at St. Maria Goretti Church, 500 Northgate Drive, Dyer, IN. Internment will be immediately following at Mount Mercy Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made in memory of Mary Whelan to the Mary Whelan Memorial Fund at Bishop Noll Institute, 1519 Hoffman Street, Hammond, IN.