Former Dunelander Sharon L. Whalen died Saturday, March 15, 2008, at LaPorte Hospital. A resident of LaPorte, she was 52.

She was born on Feb. 3, 1956, in Valparaiso, the daughter of Winfred D. and Elizabeth (Bryes) Whalen, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are two brothers, Larry (wife Loretta) Whalen of Manteno, Ill., and Dennis (wife Jackie) Whalen of Seattle, Wash.; a sister, Karen (husband Thomas) Zuranski of Burns Harbor; many nieces and nephews; and her long-time companion, William E. Gallagher of LaPorte.

Sharon was a graduate of Chesterton High School and before moving to LaPorte lived in Westville. She was a homemaker and had worked at the BP station in Westville for three years. She loved cats and her Australian sheep dog, Buddy. Sharon enjoyed Elvis, country music, Beanie Babies, and photographing friends and family. She enjoyed her coffee at the L&G Truck Stop in Burns Harbor, where she was lovingly known as “Coffee Cup.” Sharon was a loving sister and friend who will be dearly missed.

A funeral service, the Rev. Ian William officiating, is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Road in LaPorte. Friends may call from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Cremation will follow the services.

Memorials may be made to the family, in care of Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Road, LaPorte, IN 46350.

Posted 3/17/2008