Billy “Rene” Whalen
1956 – 2020

Billy “Rene” Whalen, 63, of Keokuk, IA, died Thursday, February 27, 2020 at
UnityPoint Health in Keokuk.
He was born on June 12, 1956 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Billy and Wanna Spurgeon
Whalen. Rene graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1974 and received
his Associates Degree from Southeastern Community College.
He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.
On November 24, 1990, Rene was united in marriage to Carole Murray in Quincy, IL.
She survives.
He is also survived three sisters-in-law, Kathy (Lars) Hermanson of Bartlesville, OK,
Terri Macormic of Salina, KS and Janet (Dan) Burrus of Fowler, IL, several cousins
including Jackie Scott of Williamstown, MO, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother at birth, Charles, one uncle, Bob
Whalen and his in-laws, Alvin and Emma Murray.
Rene had been employed as a custodian with the Keokuk Community School District.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #41 and the N.R.A.
Rene loved the water and did a lot of boating on the Mississippi. He was also a
certified scuba diver. He enjoyed any kind of car racing from NASCAR to the Lee County
Stock Car races. He also enjoyed working on his cars and striving for the best gas
mileage. He loved taking care of his beloved cats.
Services will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the family.
On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com