Douglas L. “Doug” Whalen, Sr.
July 30, 1959 - April 9, 2026
Douglas L. “Doug” Whalen, Sr., age 66, of New Castle, DE, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Born in Wilmington, Delaware on July 30, 1959, he was a son of the late Clyde J. and Emma (Alexander) Whalen, Sr. Doug spent his career as a machine operator at Laidlaw Corporation.
Doug was dedicated to serving his community for over fifty years as a proud life member of the Holloway Terrace Fire Company. He was known for his kindness, a huge heart, and a happy-go-lucky demeanor. In his spare time, he loved trying his luck on the horses and slots at Delaware Park. He also enjoyed hosting weekly poker games with his friends and playing cornhole at family cookouts. In his youth, he enjoyed camping, going to the beach, playing softball, hunting, skiing, and bowling, and once posted an impressive bowling score of 279. His presence, laughter, and easygoing spirit will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, Doug was preceded in death by his brothers, Clyde J. Whalen, Jr. and Melvin E. Whalen. He is survived by his son, Douglas L. Whalen, Jr. (Alexis); his grandson, Douglas L. “Tripp” Whalen, III; his granddaughter, Delaney A. Whalen; his brother, Wayne C. Whalen, Sr. (Cecilia); and his sisters, Linda L. Whalen and Beverly A. Wright.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doug’s memory to the Holloway Terrace Fire Company, P.O. Box 684, New Castle, DE 19720.
Kenneth Phillips
Rip. Doug your friendship will always be their never forget the times you were there when I needed ya . But that’s who you were Gonna miss ya bud love ya God Speed. Love Kenny.
Terry DiMenco
My sincere condolences to Doug’s family and friends. Always enjoyed talking and being around him. RIP
Rich Weaver Jr
Had some great times with Dougie, great guy, fun times and will definitely be missed. Rest in peace Brother.🙏
We’ll take it from here !
Helen Peterson- Jackson
My condolences to Doug and Alexis and the Whalen family . Rest in peace buddy . So many fun times lots of laughs and jokes at one another . I pray your peace and unconditional love was granted. Love ya old friend.
Michael Smith
I remember Dougie from the firehouse back in the day. May he rest in eternal peace. ✝️
Cheryl A Bailey
Thank you Douglas for always being there for my brother James Allen Bailey and being kind-hearted to him You will always be remembered and I love you for that rest in peace Doug
Louie Defilippis
My Thoughts and Prayers go out to Doug’s Family and Friends , Doug was a longtime Great Friend to my Family and Me !! I have lots of Great memories of all the good times we shared , and He will surely be missed , God Bless Doug and his Family !! Rest in Peace my Friend !!
Matthew Smolka
My condolences to Wayne and the Whalen family. I have such fine memories growing up with the Whalen’s in Simmonds Gardens, never a dull moment. May God bless you all in this time of sorrow.
Nora mickowski
Condolences to family and 🧡 friends
Karen Johnstone
Thoughts and prayers to Whalen family from memory of Mike McClain.
Bill Sullivan
Our condolences to the Whalen family I worked at Laidlaw with Doug for many years ou thoughts and prayers
Kenny Lucas
Sending condolences and prayers to family, I worked with Doug for several years at Laidlaw. We shared many good times in Holloway Terrance and at my place having BBQ. Love you brother. …
Amanda Fritts
My condolences cousin Doug and family! I’m so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I have good memories of Uncle Doug as a kid 🙏❤️
Christine Miller
I am heart broken to hear that Doug passed away. He was a Huge part of my life and I will be forever grateful for our son Douglas. I will never forget the good times we had at the beach, camping with Wayne and Cele and the kids. He will always have a special place in my heart. Wishing everyone peace and comfort during this difficult time. His laughter and sense of humor will be missed.