Dennis Michael Whelan, age 76, of Sanderson, Florida, was welcomed Home on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. He was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, on December 5, 1946, to James and Mary (O'Toole) Whelan. Dennis was a veteran of the U.S. Navy having served one tour in Vietnam and earned two bronze stars. He did not get the good conduct medal. Dennis had various sales jobs, but his real passion was tractors. He also owned a dry cleaner company and worked in a cube farm. He retired in 2007 and moved to Baker County. He had no idea that "Heaven was this close." After retirement, Dennis owned and operated a goat farm, a plant nursery, and was once or twice a landlord. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Sanderson, a church he had looked forward to attending all of his life. They were common, God fearing folks with love and belief in the Lord. Dennis once ran for mayor of Sanderson, but only got one vote. Dennis married Alice (Kraus) and with her came three daughters, Shanna Rhoden, Lori Carter, and Aubree Hires, and three additional sons, Robert Carter Jr., Ryan Carter, and Tyler Hires who joined his family of two sons, Thomas Michael Whelan, Daniel Scott Whelan. There were also sixty grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sisters, Kathi Dery and Bridget Walls; and brother, Kevin Whelan. A Celebration of Dennis's Life will be held 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Sanderson with Pastor Roy Vining officiating. Dennis left instructions that no black is to be worn at this funeral. Please wear something green or yellow to represent his love of his favorite tractor, John Deere. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dennis's memory to First Baptist Church of Sanderson, P.O. Box 127, Sanderson, Florida 32087. Cremation arrangements entrusted to the care of BLACKBURN-CURRY FUNERAL & CREMATION, 380 N. Lowder Street, Macclenny, Florida 32063. (904) 259-2806 . Please share your condolences with the Whelan family online at www.blackburncurryfh.com.