Bradley Dean Whelan

Bradley “Brad” Whelan, 66, Bemidji, Minn., died Thursday, Feb. 25, in Sanford Medical Center. Fargo, ND.

A walk-through visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, March 1, 2021at Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home, Bemidji. The visitation is open to everyone with all Covid-19 protocol being observed. Private family services will be held at later date.

Bradley Dean Whelan was born December 28, 1954 in Kalispell, Montana to Robert & Laverne Whelan. The family lived in Hungry Horse, Montana until 1963 when they moved to Bemidji. Brad graduated from Bemidji High School in 1973. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War from 1974 to 1977. Brad was honorably discharged and held pride to serving his country.

Brad has a history in working in Sales and management. Brad retired from Whelan Properties where he managed properties with his brother Bob for the last 20 years. Brad enjoyed wrestling while he was in high school. He had a strong passion for working on cars and collecting car models. Brad also enjoyed collecting baseball cards, working on puzzles, riding his Harley, playing darts, camping, hunting deer and playing softball.

Those who knew Brad knew he had compassion and care for his 6 children and his family. His morning routine consisted of checking in on his children, driving to each of their destinations to be sure they were, “where they were supposed to be”. Brad was known for his witty humor, quick jokes, and his attractive personality. Brad has history of making the ladies smile and could light up the room with his own. Brad insisted at being at the birth of each of his grandchildren and was proud to be a Grandpa. Brad loved to spend time with family and friends in his garage surrounded by his Harleys and his Mustang. He would be willing to drop anything for a game of darts or cribbage. Brad loved his small dog Kitchi, who has been with him side-by-side for over the last 5 years. Brad never passed judgement on others and accepted everyone for who they were. Brad would always be there to listen when others needed guidance, support, or advice. Brad will certainly be known as a legend. His legacy will be carried on by those who hold him dear to their hearts.

Brad will be missed by many and devotedly reminisced by his children, Star Whelan, Bradley (Rori Wright) Whelan, Jr., Amber Whelan, April Whelan, Ammie (Garrett) Klein and Levi (Ashley Blevins) Green; mother, Laverne Whelan; Kenneth (Sharon) Whelan, Dixie (Charles) Babin, Fred (Kim) Whelan, Bob (Mary) Whelan, Teri (Buddy Chancelor) Graves and Tami (Fred) Wesley; 18 grandchildren 2 great grandchildren; dog, Kitchi. He is preceded in death by his father Robert, infant son, Dustin and nephew, James Graves.