Robert Kieran Whalen

Robert Kieran Whalen (“Bob”) died Wednesday, August 24, 2022. He passed peacefully at home with his partner, Julie, and son, David, at his side.​Bob was born July 16, 1944. The third child of the late Harold and Elizabeth Whalen, Bob was a proud native of St. Louis Park, and grew up alongside his brother Jimmy and sisters, Carole, and Mary.​While completing his PhD at Stony Brook University, Bob met an undergraduate from the Bronx, Barbara Krohley. The pair wedded in 1971 and their 45-year marriage was marked by devotion, love, and good humor. Their son David was born in 1979. Bob was a caring and patient father who ensured his family wanted for nothing.​Bob enjoyed careers in business and education. As a CEO in New York, he was known for his tough negotiating style and his honesty. As a teacher, he was beloved by his students in New Jersey and St. Paul, many of whom kept in contact with him long after graduation.​Following Barbara’s death in 2016, Bob reconnected with his college friend, Julie Ramphal of Huntington Beach. Bob and Julie enjoyed traveling together and visits with friends.​Bob was a voracious reader and a gifted writer. He reveled in good conversation, and rarely was at a loss for words. His sardonic humor was legendary.​Bob was loved and admired by his colleagues, friends, and students – and especially by his family.​Robert is survived by his partner, Julie; his son, David, and his husband, Colin; his granddaughter, Mackenzie; and his sisters, Carole, and Mary.​He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; his parents, Harold and Elizabeth; and his brother, James.​Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM Wednesday, September 7 at The Church of St. Agnes, 548 Lafond Ave., St. Paul. Visitation 4-7 pm Tuesday at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home-Roseville, 2130 N. Dale St. at County Rd. B and at the church on Wednesday from 10-11 AM.​Interment Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis.