Noreen Elizabeth Whelan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Noreen Elizabeth Whelan (née Kennedy) on January 28, 2026, a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and dear friend, born October 1, 1942. She was a proud Newfoundlander born in St. John’s. Noreen was predeceased by her beloved husband, Michael James Whelan, who passed away in 2017, whom she missed every day. Noreen and her husband Mike lived in St. Thomas, ON, for many years, and upon retirement moved to Clementsport, NS, where they developed deep roots in the community and were loved by many.

Noreen leaves behind her four children, Barbara Pressey (Paul), Paul Whelan (Yvonne Lowry), Elana Whelan (Lee), and Katherine Whelan (Wayne Grant). Along with her two precious grandchildren, Liam Pressey (Margaret) and Kennedy Pressey (Brandon), who brought her endless joy. She will also be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and her soul sisters Pat, Michele, Katherine (Kay) and Pauline. A special mention to Becky, Garth, Keannen, Gracie, and Andrew all of whom knew they were always welcome in her home for a chat or a hug. When her friends and family visited or called, her joy was evident to all.

During the last four years of her life, Noreen lived with her daughter Elana and spouse Lee, surrounded by love, laughter, and wagging tails. She shared her days with their golden retrievers, Autumn and Enzo, and her cherished companion Cinnamon, her Chihuahua–Dachshund mix, who remained by her side until August 2024. Being with her family and beloved animals brought her great comfort and happiness.

Noreen had a witty sense of humour and a personality all her own; she was quick with a remark, sharp as a tack, and always ready with a laugh and a smile. She had a lifelong love for animals and a soft spot for any creature that crossed her path. She enjoyed a good game of crib, bingo, playing darts, a blue jay’s game, and was never afraid to try something new, including curling, yoga, and tai chi.

Her family would like to extend their sincere thanks to Raylee, Noreen’s devoted caregiver, for her kindness, patience, and compassion, and to Laurier-Don, who cared for her prior to Raylee. Heartfelt appreciation is also extended to the Palliative Care Unit at the VG Hospital, whose exceptional care and support brought comfort to Noreen and her family during her final days.

In keeping with Noreen’s love for animals, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nova Scotia SPCA.

A gathering to celebrate Noreen’s life will take place in the Spring in Clementsport, Nova Scotia, details to follow in the coming months.

Noreen was the heart of her family and friends. She was kind, strong, and full of character. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were lucky enough to know her.

Forever loved, always remembered, in every life she graced.

Here’s a Poem to remember her:

For Noreen

She lived in laughter and quick-witted grace,

In open doors and a welcoming place.

In wagging tails and a gentle hand,

In love that always chose to stand.

A mother first, her truest role,

With fierce devotion, heart, and soul.

She found her joy in family near,

In simple moments, year by year.

Though she has gone from mortal sight,

Her spark remains, her guiding light.

In every laugh, in kindness shown,

Her love lives on; it’s still our home.

Author: Lee W. Pressey