Obituary of Joseph M. Whalen

~~Joe is survived by nearly all friends and extended family, especially two wonderful adult children, Asa and Samantha Whalen, who will only use their powers for good. Liked, loved, cared for, and spoiled by his loving wife with the heart of an entire village, Christina Mary.  He lived a front loaded life guided by an old proverb, "Enough is Great Riches". CEO and owner of Joe Whalen Enterprises, an international textile recycling company as well as other small businesses throughout life, Joe was fortunate enough to semi-retire at 45 years old and golfed over 100 rounds per year around the country until the final rainout. A consistent local foursome of good friends made every round feel like a hole in one. What a great run!   His regrets were few, other than the burden and sorrow Joe leaves to friends and family including his parents, Joe and Ann Whalen of Schenectady, NY and his sister Deb (Dave) Kelley of Pittsfield, MA,   Joe always had good hearing, but was ambushed by the silent killer of pancreatic cancer. His difficult journey was eased by the care provided by loyal friends and some outstanding medical professionals.  He believed that eventually we all come down to a statistic of souls hopefully to help someone somewhere down the road. Que sera sera. May God bless his friends and family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tioga County Boys & Girls Club, 201 Erie St., Owego, NY  13827, or any local charity of your choice. A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, July 15 beginning at 3 PM at the American Legion, 263 Front St., Owego.  Condolences may be made to Joe’s family at www.emfaheyfuneralhome.com.