SULLIVAN – Emma “Bonnie” J. Whalen, 73, a longtime resident of Hancock County, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 17, 2013, surrounded by her children. Bonnie was born June 17, 1939, in Searcy, Ark., to Jack and Leah Cochran.
She grew up in Kansas City, Mo., and was a graduate of Ruskin High School. While he was traveling on U.S. Army orders, Bonnie met the love of her life, Roy Whalen Sr. Soon they were married in Bath, settled in Sullivan, and began their lives together. Always a constant companion to any of his vocations, Bonnie worked alongside her husband raking blueberries, making wreaths, digging worms and any other seasonal work. She was also a fantastic caretaker for many who were not able to do for themselves. Whether working or at home, Bonnie lived with passion and dedication for her children and later her grandchildren. In their entire lives they were never left with a babysitter. Although family was always their first idea of fun, after the children were raised, Bonnie and Roy often enjoyed traveling to Bangor to enjoy a night of Beano together. Bonnie is remembered by her family as a loving mother, “Mammo,” and friend who taught love to those who knew her by precept and example.
Bonnie is survived by her son, Roy Whalen Jr. of Sullivan; daughters, Florence Fregeau of Wesley, and Audrey Whalen and partner, Lawrence Gilman Jr., of Hancock; grandchildren, Arthur Herbest IV and partner, Lindsey Scovin, of Hancock, and Hanna and Roy Whalen III of Sullivan; great-grandchild, Grace Herbest of Hancock; and special friends, Jaybird, Joe Bennett, Philip Torrey,Warren Pettegrow, and Tee and Trish Trundy She was predeceased by her husband of 37 years, Roy Whalen Sr.; daughter-in-law, Angela Whalen; and son-in-law, Bennie Fregeau.
Visiting hours are scheduled 5-7 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at the Milbridge Chapel of Bragdon-Kelley Funeral Home where a funeral service will begin 1 p.m. Friday, March 22. A committal ceremony will be after the service at York Hill Cemetery, Sullivan. Remembrances may be donations to Mary Dow Cancer Center, care of Jack Frost, 50 Union St., Ellsworth, ME 04605.
Emma ‘Bonnie’ J. Whalen
