Dr. David Charles Whelan, Ph.D., 76, of Sun City Center, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, after a lengthy battle with liver cancer.
Dave was born in Flushing, New York, to the late Robert E. Whelan and Juliana Catherine (Hofstadt) Whelan. He grew up in Brooklyn and Queens and cherished summers spent at the family cottage in West Hebron, New York.
A gifted athlete and musician, Dave attended the New York Military Academy on a band scholarship, where he played trumpet and basketball. He continued his basketball career at Wagner College on a full scholarship, earning a B.A. in Social Studies. He later earned a Master’s degree from Long Island University and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York.
Dave began his career as a police officer and detective with the City of Newark, New Jersey, while also playing semi-professional basketball in the former Eastern League. He went on to become a professor, teaching at colleges and universities across the country for more than 40 years. Throughout his life, he was a respected professor, coach, referee, and teammate who touched the lives of countless students, athletes, and colleagues.
Dave’s greatest accomplishments, however, were the relationships he built and the love he gave. He was a kind, generous, and loving man who enjoyed golf, sports, music, and dancing. His warm, genuine smile could light up a room, and his spirit will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Dave is survived by his wife, Michele Whelan; his three sons, Rick (Suzy), Jared (Lisa), and Patrick; five grandchildren, Luke, Brooke, Kendall, Kamryn, and Reece Whelan; his brother, Robert E. Whelan (Ruth); nephew Gator; niece Susan; and cousin Julie Otto.
A Mass will be held on September 26, 2026, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 702 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center, Florida, followed by a Celebration of Life from 12:30–3:30 p.m. at the Kings Point North Clubhouse, 1900 Clubhouse Dr., Sun City Center in the East/West room.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Life Path Hospice, 11150 N. 53rd St., Temple Terrace, FL 33617.