John Thomas Whelan, born December 10, 1941 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, died March 25, 2023 after a long illness. Predeceased by his parents John and Kathleen Ryan Whelan, sisters Nancy Whelan, Helen Carnahan (Grove), Louise Brady (Jack), Margaret Peck (Bill) and Joan McDermott (Dick). John is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Linda Furlani and his children Katherine Whelan, of Richmond, John Whelan (Niki) of Sydney, Australia, and Anna Whelan of Richmond; as well as his grandchildren Amelia and Everett Whelan of Sydney, Australia and Leia Whelan of Richmond.

 

Dr. Whelan received his bachelor’s degree from Canisius College in 1963 and a Master’s degree from the University of Pittsburg in 1965. After completing a tour in the United States Army, he earned his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh in 1972. Dr. Whelan joined the University of Richmond as an instructor of political science in 1970 and became one of the four founding members of the political science department, eventually being promoted to full professor.

 

Professor Whelan’s most significant and enduring legacy will be his leadership of the Virginia Generally Assembly Program which he had directed for 33 years, placing and supervising almost 500 interns in positions throughout state government. Acknowledged as an excellent teacher and wise mentor, students routinely praised his depth of knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject of government and politics. Dr. Whelan leaves behind many admiring students and colleagues who recall his humility, kindness, and generosity.

 

John was an avid gardener who was most proud of his “Glen Allen” tomatoes which he distributed liberally among his colleagues and friends. He was a voracious reader, a lover of all things Irish, a Nats fan and a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather.

 

A memorial mass will be held on June 17th at 10:30 am at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Springfield Rd., Glen Allen. Family visitation is at 9:30 am with a reception following the mass.