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Portrait of Emily Whalen
Im loving memory of Emily Whalen

Emily Whalen

July 14, 1973 – April 6, 2023
Lived 49 years
Oakdale Cemetery · Oakdale, CA
Life story

July 14, 1975 - April 6, 2023

Emily was born in Modesto, CA, and died of advanced colon cancer at the age of 47. Emily is survived by her beloved son Brandon Harris (Lola Yates) and three grandchildren Josiah, Jonah, and Nova; brother Patrick Whalen (Kristyn) and two nephews Elias and Benjamin; and mother Elisabet (Lis) Whalen (Robert Hunter). Emily was formally trained as a chef and worked for many years in local restaurants. She later worked in real estate; and grocery product development, advertisement, and graphics printing. Emily was passionate about health, education, and helping others. With one year of coursework remaining, Emily was on path to earn a BS in Public Health at Hayward State with Highest Honors. She aspired to earn a doctoral degree and pursue a professional research career in public health. Emily lived an active and outdoor oriented life, including Spartan Racing and river kayaking. What stood out most about Emily was her sincere and direct approach to relationships that easily engendered trust, respect, and caring. Emily was well loved by all who knew her. She is buried here at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Knights Ferry, CA.

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Lifetime

The world Emily knew

Family milestones in gold, history for context

1973
Born July 14
1981
Emily was 8 when MTV began broadcasting
1982
Emily was 9 when Michael Jackson released "Thriller"
1994
Emily was 21 when "Friends" premiered
1998
Emily was 25 when "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" was published in America
2001
Emily was 28 when Apple introduced the iPod
2004
Emily was 31 when Facebook was launched
2023
Passed away April 6, age 49
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Sheri Pankow 133w

My Dearest BFABB

Man I miss you! You were a one of a kind Em! A true friend and amazing woman. So often I sit and think of all the great times we had together. Sitting on for front porch having the best conversations with a glass of wine, the laughter we had our on walks on break at work, and the crazy way we would use song lyrics to message each other. I loved watching dance movies with you and the nicknames that we would come up with for each other. BFABB being one of them meaning Born From A Boom Box. You were one in a million Emily and I will forever miss your incredible smile, infectious laugh and your warrior spirit. Im so thankful that you choose me to be your friend. It’s one of the greatest gifts of my life. I love you BFABB! Today, tomorrow, always! Love, Sheri BFABB

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Oakdale Cemetery
Oakdale, CA
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