In Loving Memory of Dr. John Daniel Whelan

September 4, 1946 – May 12, 2025

Dr. John Daniel Whelan, a devoted psychiatrist and loving father, passed away on May 12, 2025, at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. He was 78 years old.

Born on September 4, 1946, Dr. Whelan dedicated his life to helping others through medicine, education, and compassion. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred (nee Tidemann) Whelan and Thomas Whelan; his sister, Jenny; and his wife, Loretta Sumayah, whom he married in Saint Lucia on August 11, 2016.

John is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Heather Whelan of California; his stepdaughters, Samantha Phillips of New York and Kristal Phillips of Wisconsin; his former spouse, Louisa Whelan of South Dakota; and a large circle of family and friends in both the United States and Saint Lucia.

Dr. Whelan’s academic journey reflected his unwavering commitment to medicine. He earned an Associate Degree in Pre-Med in 1966, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in 1969 and a Master’s degree from the University of Wyoming in 1974. He received his medical degree from Spartan University in Saint Lucia in 1987, followed by a degree in Psychiatry in 1996 and a specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in 1999.

Throughout his career, Dr. Whelan was known for his dedication to mental health. He served as the Medical Director at Affiliated Counseling in West Bend until his retirement in 2021. Prior to that, he worked at Fond du Lac County Health Care Center, offering care in both acute and outpatient settings.

John had a generous heart and was known for his willingness to help anyone in need. He deeply loved his daughters and maintained close ties with his Saint Lucian community, traveling there often. He was also fond of spending time with friends in Fond du Lac and visiting his favorite restaurant, Sunset On The Water.

Dr. Whelan’s life was one of service, love, and compassion. His presence, kindness, and wisdom will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held in July in Saint Lucia, where John’s ashes will be spread on the island he loved so dearly.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date in his hometown of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to support a local mental health organization in John’s honor.

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