Michael Whalen

Michael James Whalen passed away March 28, 2022, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.  Mike was born to Martin “Joe” Whalen and Elouise (Townsend) Bowen, February 2,1951, in Battle Creek, Michigan,

graduating from Lakeview High School in 1969.

His brief marriage to Marty Lind ended in divorce.

Mike married Diane (Phillips) Koerner in 1981 and had two sons together Justin Michael and Joseph Martin Whalen.

In 2001, Mike married Christina Ebinger and later had their son, Casey.

Mike’s three sons all inherited his tremendous bowling skills and love for baseball and softball.

Mike was a natural and gifted athlete, spending his early years playing Little League baseball with his brother.  He played softball with Battle Creek Glass for several years, later winning a state title with Besco Water.  He was also a well-known bowler who had several “honor scores” and was inducted into the Bowling Hall of Fame in 1995.

Mike’s love of bowling led he and Chris to open the pro shop at M-66 Bowl, totaling over 40 years in Pro Shop ownership.  Mike would always be found behind the counter with a bottle of Dr Pepper and a bag of pretzels; gladly dropping everything to drill a ball for anyone.

Mike continued his passion for baseball and softball and spent many years as an umpire, rising to the rank of Commissioner of Umpires in Southwest Michigan.  He was also in the MHSAA Hall of Fame.

Mike’s wit, generosity and huge heart will be sorely missed by all.

Mike leaves behind his devoted wife, Chris, sons; Justin (Courtney), Joe and Casey Whalen, Sergeant First Class Matthew (Shauna) Koerner, and Austin Ebinger, brother, Marty Whalen, sisters; Kathleen (Rick) Sly, Patrice Whalen, grandchildren; Hailey and Ava Whalen, Draven and Ahri Koerner, an aunt, a niece and four nephews.

Memorial service is scheduled for 4:00 p.m., Friday, April 8, 2022 at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, with Rev. Cary Grant officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donating to the M-66 Youth Bowling League.