Melvin Bruce Whalen

Melvin Bruce Whalen, the son of Joseph and Maggie (Reeverts) Whalen, was born on December 15, 1929 in Dickens, Iowa. He was raised in Dickens and graduated from Gillett Grove in 1947. 

 He married Lillian Charlene Flack on May 14, 1950, in Dickens, IA. Following their marriage, they remained in Dickens where they raised their family. He worked as a farmhand for Maxon Gadsby and later with Donald Wilson. He was hired by Dickens Co-op as the grain manager and worked there for 33 years. He was the fire chief of the Dickens Fire Dept. for 30 years joining the Fire Dept. in 1960. He initiated the first responders and ambulance in addition to a new pumper truck.

 At a young age, Melvin spent his summers at his sister Jennie's farm where he learned to drive horses. This turned into a lifelong passion. He had several brood mares and raised draft horses. Melvin was also a very avid coon hunter and always enjoyed taking summer vacations with his family.

 Melvin passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 94. He is preceded in death by his wife, Lillian in 2021; his parents; his brother, Joseph Whalen; his sisters: Jennie Piscator, Alma Blume, Florence Blighton, Bertha Strohman and Mae Reinholdt and his great granddaughter, Avrey Sonius.

 Left to cherish his memory are his children: Nancy Louthan (Steve) of Hudson, IA, Sandra Whalen of Cody, WY, Randall Whalen (Lois) of Dickens, IA and Molly Sonius of Royal, IA; 8 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; other relatives and friends. 

 Melvin's life was a life of service to his Lord, his family, and those around him. He lived each day of his life on call. He was ready in a moment's notice to respond to the pager on his side to help a neighbor in their time of need. But he wasn't just on call through the fire department. His family knew that Dad or Grandpa was just one call away. He could fix anything; he gave the best advice; and his hugs could calm your biggest fears. His faith was also a very important part of his life. He lived his life on call to the Lord - waiting and ready.