Betty D. Whalen's Obituary
Betty Dawson Whalen, age 97, of Grand Haven, MI, passed away peacefully and surrounded by her family on March 22, 2026.
She was born on May 29, 1928, in Louisville, Kentucky, daughter of the late George and Mary (Kolb) Dawson.
She married Leonard J. Whalen on January 26, 1946, in North Carolina, and they spent 58 wonderful years together until he preceded her in death in 2004.
Betty was employed by the Grand Haven Police Department for many years, retiring on January 1, 1999. After retirement she and her husband enjoyed many trips in their motor home and spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Betty will be lovingly remembered by her three children: J. Michael (Kathie) Whalen, Marjorie (Doug) W. Voss, and Benjamin L. Whalen; three grandchildren: Philip (Callie), Angela (Josh), and Kyle (Celi); and five great-grandchildren: Taylor, Trevor, Ellie, Patrick, and Taylor. Betty grew up an only child, but thanks to her husband’s six sisters she is also remembered by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and daughter in-law, Linda Whalen.
A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held for Betty at 2:00 PM on Monday, March 30, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI, 49444, with VISITATION taking place an hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Health Hospice Care. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories at https://sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Betty?
What’s a lesson you learned from Betty?
Share a story where Betty's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Betty you’ll never forget.
How did Betty make you smile?
