Thomas M. Whalen, age 72, of Selbyville, DE formerly of Alexandria, VA passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, September 29, 2024 in the comfort of his own home.

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

Mr. Whalen 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, his love of sports and was a faithful Dallas Cowboys fan.  He also enjoyed taking cruises, 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; 5 granddaughters, Sophie Tugman, Amanda Wilk, Aslan Tugman, Katie Tillotson and Abigail Wilk; a brother, Daniel Whalen and two sisters, Sister Anita Whalen and Loretta Danzl and 5 nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher St., Frankford, DE 19945, where friends and family may gather after 11 AM.  Interment will be private.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at 37456 Leisure Drive,The Refuge, Selbyville, DE 19975 following the service.

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