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Brian Whalen, born Long Beach, California August 18, 1932, died March 27, 2023. He was home with his family. Brian was the third child of seven of Luke and Lillian Whalen. He is survived by sister Patricia Nolan, of North Carolina and brother Luke Whalen, of Idaho. Raised in Boulder City, Nevada, he began his lifelong affinity for sports. From Boulder he enlisted with the US Army stationed in Germany during the Korean War. Following his service he graduated from the College of the Sequoias and the University of Nevada, in Civil Engineering. He then began his forty-year career with the University of Nevada, retiring as the Director of Facilities. He married Kress Harris in 1960. Their family grew to include children Maizie (Patrick), Brian, Jr. (Shelley) and Kati (Kent). He is also survived by grandchildren, Marissa Pusich, Luke Pusich, Holly (Travis) Smith and Jackie Whalen, and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Brian played baseball in high school and college. He was also on the University basketball team, although he fondly recalled his main position as team driver. He continued his involvement with sports following graduation, as an umpire and referee. He was one of the time-keepers for Nevada basketball for over thirty years, and was recognized for his contributions to UNR athletics with the inaugural Public Service Award, which he received at the same time as long-time friend Jim Gardner. Brian was also recognized for his contributions to the University when the campus chose to name the Brian J. Whalen Parking Complex after him. Brian was involved in the community beyond the University. He spent many years working with both Saint Mary’s Hospital and Saint Albert’s Catholic Church and school. Brian served on the City of Reno Planning Commission, involved with several major projects, perhaps the most visible of which was the opening of Interstate 80 through downtown. He viewed his most important work, and found his greatest joy in, his family. He was the family mechanic, cheerleader, driver, chaperone, carpenter, and sounding board. He was an outstanding role model, who often said “if you cannot say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Gifts in Brian’s honor can be made to the Whalen-Hastings Nursing Scholarship at the University of Nevada Reno. A private Mass was held. A memorial celebration will be announced at a later time.

Posted online on April 04, 2023

Published in Reno Gazette-Journal