Obituary of James "Jim" Whalen

After a brief illness, the death occurred peacefully at Gillis Lodge on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, of James (Jim) Edwin Whalen of Avondale, aged 91 years, with his loving wife of 63 years by his side.

Jim is survived by his wife Ronalda (MacDonald) Whalen, their seven children John (Nancy) of Ottawa, Ontario; Robert (Elizabeth) of Indianapolis, USA; Michael (Julie) of Orton, Ontario; James Jr. (Janice) of Avondale, PEI; Leonard (Pamela) of Avondale, PEI; Ronald (Tracey) of Hermitage PEI,  Steven, of Peakes, PEI; and 21 grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his only daughter Gloria. He is also survived by his sister Edna (James MacLean), his sisters-in-law Gloria Chapman, Augusta Harriman, Sheila MacDonald,  Ita MacDonald and Richardena Whalen.

Jim was born on the family farm in Fairville, PEI on February 13, 1935, the youngest member of the late John and Margaret Whalen’s family. His early education was at the Elliotvale School. Jim then proceeded to Prince of Wales College living with his oldest sister Mary McQuaid and her family in Charlottetown. After receiving his teaching certificate, he began teaching at various one room schools including Elliotvale and Cherry Valley. And spoke of fond memories when meeting former students. Wanting to see the rest of Canada before settling down to farm, he headed for the North-West Territories and spent four years teaching in northern communities, including Hay River and Fort Resolution. 

In 1959, prior to his last year in the North, he purchased the property where he resided since the spring of 1961. In August of 1962, he married the love of his life, and together they shared 63 years raising a family, farming and supporting their eight athletic children in both winter and summer sports. Jim was also a valued member of the PEI Department of Agriculture, where he advanced support for rural communities, farm cooperatives, and agricultural enterprises. He spearheaded the founding of a number of farm cooperatives including the PEI Vegetable Growers Cooperative and the expansion of the PEI Grain Elevators, among other initiatives. Upon retirement from public service, he supported the family farm and could often be found in his Ford 8670 during planting and harvest well into his late 80s.

A lifelong member and supporter of St Joachim’s Parish,  Jim served many years on the Parish Council. He was also a lifetime member of the Vernon River Lions Club and represented PEI on the Atlantic Grains Council for many years.

The family wishes to express sincere gratitude for the excellent care and support provided by the staff of the QEH and KCMH during the early stages of Jim’s illness, and for the compassion and kindness shown by the staff of Gillis Lodge during his final month.

Resting at Hillsboro Funeral Home from where visiting hours will be held Monday, June 8, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joachim’s Church, Vernon River.  Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Joachim’s Roman Catholic Parish or the PEI 4-H Trust.