It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Violet Penny Whelan on

February 11, 2026. Shirley passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving children, in Fort

McMurray, AB.

Shirley was born on July 3, 1946, raised in Happy Valley–Goose Bay, Labrador—a true

Labradorian and proud of it. Some of her fondest childhood memories were of family and of

picking berries with her friends.

In her early adulthood, Shirley’s brave spirit led her to become a flight attendant. Soon after, her

love for music grew into more than a passion as she began singing in a band. Little did she

know that this love for music would become a lifelong adventure.

In the summer of 1965, she met the man who would soon become her husband. Joe Whelan

swept her off her feet, taking her to dances, to the movies, and sharing her love for music. They

married on January 7, 1966, and were thereafter blessed with five wonderful children: Joe,

Angie, Danny, Aaron, and Tyler.

Shirley’s life is difficult to summarize, but one theme holds true throughout: her heart and strong

will kept those around her persevering through the toughest of times. Her laughter and bright

spirit could calm any storm. Her warm eyes, quirky sense of humor, and comforting smile could

fill a room and soothe the moments that needed it most.

Shirley’s biggest fear about dying was leaving behind the people she loved. That is the perfect

summary of how she lived—selflessly. Even during her hardest days, she was more concerned

about the well-being of her caregivers than herself. She often told nurses, “Now, go take a

break,” or told family, “Go home and rest. I’ll be okay.” Shirley spent a lifetime putting everyone

else first, and behind the scenes, she was the glue that held it all together.

With a strength that was unmatched, a contagious smile that shared joy, a love that could heal,

and a faith that allowed her to tell the doctors, “Thank God you’re not giving me my time!”, she

faced every challenge with grace.

The truth is, Shirley will be okay. God was kind enough to share one of His angels with us, and

it was time to call her home. We are more than grateful for the time we had with her. We are

also quite sure that Joe Whelan was tired of waiting for her—after all, there’s a first time for

everything.

Surely, it won’t be the same without you, Shirley Whelan (mom, wife, grandmother, sister,

daughter, friend, dog momma, and all-around amazing person). We love you, and you will be

missed until we meet again, Momma Bear.

Shirley will be deeply missed by her children and grandchildren, who loved her beyond

measure:

Joe (Trish) Whelan — Joey &; Kyle

Angie (John) Harader — Eric, Daniel &; Zac

Danny Whelan

Aaron Whelan — Cameron (Kaesha) &; Cole

Tyler (Brianna) Whelan

She will also be dearly missed by her brothers and sisters: John, Robert, Judy, Marg, Marie,

Bruce (Doris), Michael (Cora) and Patricia.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Joe, as well as her brother Dave and her parents

Frank, Janet, and Olive.

At Shirley’s request, a celebration of life will be held at the Keyano College King’s Lounge on

Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Another celebratory gathering will be held in

Holyrood, Newfoundland, at a later date.

In lieu of donations or flowers, the family asks that Shirley’s memory and legacy be upheld

through a loving gesture to a stranger. Shirley was a beautiful soul who would do anything for

someone in need. Today, do a simple act of kindness in her memory. Bring more kindness,

love, and grace into this world—for Shirley.

Psalm 23: 1-6

The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me

beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right path, for His name’s

sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your

rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my

enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will

follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.