Thomas M. Whalen, successful businessman

Thomas M. Whalen, 72, of Selbyville, formerly of Alexandria, Va., passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in the comfort of his home.  

Thom was born in Crookston, Minn., Dec. 10, 1951, and was raised by his stepfather and mother, Robert and Anna Marie (Merck) Craik. Following high school, Thom attended George Washington University.  

Thom was a successful businessman, owning Whalen & Associates, which was a courier service he began in 1974 in Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia. After moving to Delaware in 1997, he started Delmarva Self Storage in 2000.

Thom will be remembered for his great sense of humor, and his love of sports; he was a faithful Dallas Cowboys fan. He also enjoyed taking cruises and cooking, and he was truly devoted to his family and his businesses.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Connie (Layne) Whalen; two stepdaughters, Kelly Howe and Michelle Wilk; five granddaughters, Sophie Tugman, Amanda Wilk, Aslan Tugman, Katie Tillotson and Abigail Wilk; a brother, Daniel Whalen; two sisters, Sister Anita Whalen and Loretta Danzl; and five nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at noon, Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher St., Frankford, where friends and family may gather after 11 a.m. Interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Thom’s name to Compassionate Care Hospice, c/o Amedisys Foundation, 3854 American Way, Ste. A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.