Raymond M. "Skip" Whalen
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Raymond Matthew "Skip" Whalen, 80 of Stockbridge, MA passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.
Born in Pittsfield on February 24, 1940, he is the son of Joseph and Louise Whalen.
Skip worked for a short time as a Stockbridge Policeman, Quality Manager at Nuclear Components and most notably as an OSHA/MSHA Safety Inspector for the Massachusetts Department of Labor for nearly 30 years. While there he resolved many wage and labor disputes and helped make workplace safety a priority for area businesses. Affectionately known as "Safety Skip", he had an uncanny ability to help others recognize and adhere to safe practices whilst violating nearly all of them himself.
Raymond served in the US Army from 1959-1961 and always had great pride for the extensive military service and sacrifices made by the Whalen family.
The Stockbridge Sportsmen's Club was extremely important to Skip. He was instrumental in what the club has become today. Skip managed the banquet hall for many years and was Chairman of the Echo Lake Ice Fishing Derby for 35 years where he shared his passion for the outdoors with area kids, ensuring everyone went home with a prize and a memorable experience.
Skip was an avid golfer, snowmobiler, and coached youth sports. He was always ready to give a helping hand to anyone in need. The Cottage on Greenwater Pond was his favorite family treasure where he enjoyed fishing, towing kids on skis and sharing good times with friends and family.
Skip is survived by his wife of 57 years Myra (Carr), son Keith and his wife SooJa, grandchildren Isabelle and Brady, brothers William of Cohoes and David of Lee and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his son Craig and many brothers and sisters.
A Graveside Service will be held at the Stockbridge Cemetery on Tuesday January 19th at 2pm followed by a Celebration of Life to be held in the summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Stockbridge Sportsmen's Club and the Alzheimers' Association in c/o Kelly Funeral Home, 3 Main St,. Lee, MA 01238.
If you would like to leave a message of condolence or share pictures with the family, please visit our web site at www.kellyfuneralhome.net