August 14, 1948 – May 14, 2021
With great sadness, the family announces the unexpected passing of Randy at the age of 72. Loving husband and best friend of Phyllis Eleanor Whalen (nee Garson) for 51 years, Phyllis was his purpose and truly the love of his life.
Now reunited with his parents Victor Peter Whalen & Delphine Whalen (nee Grisdale), Randy was the loving and devoted father of Randolph Allan Whalen (Tracy) and Kevin Michael Whalen (Ann), loving and fantastic Grandpa of Collin Kevin Whalen, Braedon Alexander Whalen, Cameron James Whalen, Paige Zoe Whalen and Step Grandpa to Dustin Scott, Jo-Ann Nicole, and Ethan Matthew Graham. He was the brother of Francis (Bernice), Shirley Loubert (Florian), Terry (Marilyn), Nancie Willis, Joseph (Suzanne), Cindy Maki (Donny) and JoAnn Taranto (Frank); brother-in-law of Helen St. John (late Charlie), late Marg MacDonald (late Jack), late Jack Garson (Penny), Lois Oliver (Robert), Bob Garson (late Anne), Jim Garson (Wendy), Gladys Cameron (late George), Glen Garson (late Wilma) and Harold Garson (Theresa). Randy will be sadly missed by many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Randy retired from The Algoma District School Board after 25 years as a Custodian. He was known as the Custodian with the toothpick. He was an avid hunter and angler and enjoyed sharing his love of the outdoors with his boys and grandkids. You could always find Randy working in his yard or on small projects, this of course was after he found his many treasures in the garage sales around the neighbourhood.
Those who love Randy will fondly remember his quick wit, wisdom, sense of humour and infectious laugh.
Randy and Phyllis had the once in a lifetime opportunity to take a trip for their 50th Anniversary across the Canadian Rockies. Other memorable vacations included a fantastic, scenic trip through the Smokey Mountains and to Dollywood, a visit to Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry and to the East Coast of Canada. Phyllis will cherish these memories forever.
The family would like to thank the First Responders for their sensitivity and kind attention during this difficult time.
At Randy's request there will not be a funeral service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made by cheque or online to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or take a day and spend it hunting or fishing with someone you love. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street E. 705-759-2522). Please visit the Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave a message of condolence for Randy's family