Obituary of Ellis John Whelan

RAVENA – Ellis J. Whelan, Jr., 83, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday February 22, 2017 surrounded by his dear friends. Ellis was born on September 9, 1933 in Brookline, MA to the late Ellis J. and Anna M. Stankevich Whelan. In 1951, he joined the U.S. Army, where he eventually became a Lieutenant. In the nine years he served, he received the Good Conduct Medal (1st & 2nd Awards), AOM (Japan), National Defense Service Medal, Sharpshooter (Carbine), and Expert (Carbine). He also completed courses in Electrical Engineering, as well as the courses: Noncommissioned Officer Academy, BTL IND/ ATP21-114, Code of Conduct, Military Justice B, Geneva Convention, and CBR Training. After being Honorably Discharged in 1960, Ellis worked as a baker for Drake's Bakery in NJ for 20 years. He was an avid poker and blackjack player. Ellis will be missed by his friends, William Baranowski and Judy J. Mangione. Ellis has been privately cremated, and as were his wishes, there will be no services taking place. Arrangements by A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, Ravena. Condolences can be posted at ajcunninghamfh.com.