Monika Whalen

September 20, 1945 – August 22, 2026

Monika Whalen, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, at the age of 80. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, family, and countless cherished memories.

Monika was the devoted wife of 60 years to Herbert Whalen, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and memories. She was the loving mother of Debbie (John), Andrew (Su), and Michael (Jen), and the proud Oma of five amazing grandchildren: Sarah, Maegan, Brody, Dylan, and Tyler.

Monika’s life was a story of love, courage, and determination. When she came to this country as a young wife and mother, she did not speak English. With the help and friendship of those around her, she taught herself the language and built a life and a family she was incredibly proud of. Her strength, independence, and determination were qualities that stayed with her throughout her life.

Family was the heart of Monika’s life. She loved nothing more than spending time with the people she loved, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored and happily spoiled whenever she could. She treasured family dinners, long walks after dinner, beach trips, celebrations, and simply being together. She especially enjoyed celebrating German holidays with her grandchildren, sharing cherished traditions, foods, and customs while instilling her German roots and heritage in them. These traditions will remain a special part of their lives and a lasting connection to their Oma.

Monika was also a true animal lover. She had a special place in her heart for animals and found great joy and comfort in their companionship.

Monika had a wonderful zest for life and loved making memories. She enjoyed traveling, going on cruises, spending her winters in Florida, socializing with family and friends, cooking, and attending concerts and live performances. She had a way of making everyday moments special and making everyone feel special.

She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, devotion to her family, compassion for animals, and the happiness she brought to those around her. Her greatest joy was watching her children and grandchildren grow, sharing her heritage with them, and creating traditions they will carry forward. Her love will continue to live on through each of them.

Monika leaves behind a family who will miss her deeply but will forever carry her love, laughter, traditions, German heritage, and memories in their hearts.

She was deeply loved, and she will be forever missed. In lieu or flowers, please consider making a donation to American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.org/).

Visitation will be held at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, 234 Broadway, Bethpage, NY 11714, US, on August 27, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and again from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Martin of Tours RC Church, 220 Central Ave, Bethpage, NY 11714, US, on August 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.