Vigen Memorial Home obituary - Billy "Rene" Whalen, 63, Keokuk

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Billy “Rene” Whalen, 63, of Keokuk, IA, died Thursday, February 27, 2020 at UnityPoint Health in Keokuk.
He was born on June 12, 1956 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Billy and Wanna Spurgeon Whalen. Rene graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1974 and received his Associates Degree from Southeastern Community College.
He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.


On November 24, 1990, Rene was united in marriage to Carole Murray in Quincy, IL. She survives.
He is also survived three sisters-in-law, Kathy (Lars) Hermanson of Bartlesville, OK, Terri Macormic of Salina, KS and Janet (Dan) Burrus of Fowler, IL, several cousins including Jackie Scott of Williamstown, MO, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother at birth, Charles, one uncle, Bob Whalen and his in-laws, Alvin and Emma Murray.
Rene had been employed as a custodian with the Keokuk Community School District.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #41 and the N.R.A.
Rene loved the water and did a lot of boating on the Mississippi. He was also a certified scuba diver. He enjoyed any kind of car racing from NASCAR to the Lee County Stock Car races. He also enjoyed working on his cars and striving for the best gas mileage. He loved taking care of his beloved cats.
Services will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the family.
On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com

Billy Whalen, Keokuk, obituary, Pen City Current, Vigen Memorial Home obituary