Buzz Whelan, age 73, passed away at Bronson Hospital on January 20, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Benton Harbor, MI, the son of the late LeRoy (Bud) and Joan (Cupp) Whelan Sr. Buzz was kind, loving and generous. He had a passion for helping others which lead to a career in service. He served as a police officer for Cass County, Covert Township and Van Buren County in the marine division and was a volunteer firefighter for over forty-two years at the Sister Lakes Fire Department serving as Chief toward the end of his career. He was deeply knowledgeable about public safety and took great care and pride in his commitment to surrounding communities. He spent many years working also with his father in Whelan Construction. When not serving others, he enjoyed hunting and being outdoors and took many wonderful trips with his family. On August 2, 1986, he was united in marriage to Nancy J. (Schilling) Whelan who survives. They began their family and LeRoy’s greatest joy would come from watching his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren grow. LeRoy will be missed by all who knew him and he leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. He is survived by his wife Nancy; his sons, Jason (Sherry) Whelan, Mark (Tiffany) Whelan, Leslee Whelan; his daughter MaRhea (Kevin) Bishop; his daughter of heart Leslie (Wes) Thompson; his grandchildren, Casey, Jadelyn, Shawn, Lauren, Josephine, Doug, Logan, Emilee, Macyn, Brexlee and Braelynn, Katelyn, Hannah, Isabella, Kellie, Leanna and Tank; his many Great grandchildren; his brother, Mike (Diane) Whelan; his nephews, Sean (Persephone) Whelan, Aric (Laschita) Whelan; extended family and friends.