Robert J. Whelan

Weston – Mr. Robert J. Whelan, of Weston, formerly of Waltham died Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Maristhill Nursing Home in Waltham following a period of declining health. He was 86.

Bob was born in Waltham, a son of the late Joseph and Mary (Shaughnessy) Whelan, and had been a lifelong resident before moving to Weston forty-five years ago. In his youth he spent vacations at Brant Rock in Marshfield and in later years enjoyed many happy summers with his family at their cottage at Rexhame Beach.

He received his Bachelor's degree in Germanic studies from Boston College where he was also a member of the ROTC. After that he served during the Korean War with the United States Army in Germany as an interpreter and map reader. Bob stayed in the Army Reserves after the war and was discharged as a captain.

He earned his Master's degree at Catholic University in Washington and became a professor of German Literature, first at Boston College, and then at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell where he taught until retirement.

Bob had an ear for music and played the piano and organ since his youth. He especially enjoyed classical music. In later years he was the organist at his home parish, Saint Julia's in Weston, where he also served as a lector, Eucharistic minister and choir member.

He also had a talent for oil painting where many of his creations adorn his home. Bob was also a stamp and coin collector for years and had a penchant for restoring classic cars.

Bob leaves his wife of fifty-seven years, Teresa A. (Turner) Whelan, his children, Michaele Whelan of Somerville, Megan Whelan of Dedham, Robert Whelan of Oakdale, Long Island, NY, Colin Whelan of Andover and Terence Whelan of Newton and his grandchildren, Sean, Gavin, Rhiannon and Jack Whelan, Bryson Gouvalaris and Conor Whelan.

He was the brother of the late Jean Sullivan.

Family and friends will honor and remember Bob's life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Friday, December 28th from 4 to 8 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Julia's Church, 374 Boston Post Road, Weston where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Weston.