Dennis G. Whelpley, 61, of Sackets Harbor, was called unexpectedly to the Lord on December 20, 2017.
Dennis was born on February 29, 1956 to Robert and Agatha Whelpley in Wellsville, NY. Dennis was a star theatrical performer in high school who remained an entertainer for his entire life.
After attending Alfred University, he received his J.D. from Albany Law School and then served his country in the office of Judge Advocate General’s Corp, in Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri and at Ft. Drum. He then moved to private practice first at Lewis, Bell and Niles in Plattsburgh NY before settling in the Watertown area. He was proud to have worked with many talented attorneys at Bond, Schoeneck &King, Schwerzmann & Wise and most recently with Conboy, Mckay, Bachman & Kendall.
In August of 1978, Dennis married Deborah Peangatelli, who survives. Dennis and Debby have lived on Black River Bay outside Sackets Harbor for almost thirty years. They loved the lake in all seasons with duck hunting, their dogs and beautiful gardens to fill their free time. Dennis was very proud of the historical role his homestead played in the War of 1812 and the artifacts that were discovered there.
Dennis was predeceased by his father, Robert J. Whelpley and a brother David Whelpley. He is survived by his wife of thirty-nine years, Deborah, his mother, Agatha Whelpley, brother, Robert (Joan) Whelpley, brother, John (Karen) Whelpley, sister, Janet Whelpley and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours were at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. Following calling hours a memorial service was held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Sackets Harbor Historical Society, 100 W. Main Street, Sackets Harbor, NY 13685 or to Sackets Harbor Fire Dept. /Ambulance Fund 112 S. Broad St, Sackets Harbor, NY 13685. Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com
