Barry Lee Whalen, 68

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Barry Lee Whalen, aged 68, on Oct. 12, 2020. Barry was born on March 17, 1952, in Sanborn, Iowa. He is survived by his wife, Susi Dingman; his sons, Casey and Chris; daughter-in-law, Delci; his step-daughter and her husband, Rachelle and Hoss Dillon; and his favorite niece, Amber Melom.

For the past 30 years, Barry has called Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, home. This is where he raised his boys while married to Sherry Whalen, before her passing in 2006.

Anyone who knew Barry knew that he was a master maker. He could create anything with his hands and imagination. Over his life span, Barry would hone those skills through his 45 years as a finish carpenter. He is well known for his cooking, musical talents as a drummer and singer, guitar builder, and all-around tinkerer. He modeled these skills to his two boys throughout his life.

In 2008, Barry would start a new chapter in his life with his soul mate, Susi Dingman. It was clear to see that Barry and Susi were in love. They spent 12 memory-packed years creating a life with one another in North Idaho. Throughout their time together they would travel to Belize several times and spend the winter months there. It was in Belize that Barry would decide to hang up the hammer and pick up a paintbrush.

In Barry's younger years he loved to paint and sketch — a passion of his that he set aside to be a provider to his family. Barry's youngest son, Chris, recalls a conversation with his father at the end of September, where Barry said, "I've spent over 40 years of my life providing for my family, now I get to paint because it brings me joy." It brings his family a sense of peace to know that Barry got to spend the last year of his life creating roughly 40 works of art because he found joy in it.

Barry's legacy is shown through his personality — a kind soul, willing to do anything for anyone. Barry was always helping others, however he could. He felt that if you had the means, you had an obligation to help others. Testimony from those closest to him recount memories of times they witnessed this kindness through Barry's actions.

Barry had four grandchildren. Austin, the oldest grandchild, now 21 years old, grew up watching and learning the same skills that he now uses in his job in cabinetry and finishing carpentry. His three other grandchildren, Elli, 10; Caleb, 9; and Kylee, 5, remember Papa Barry for his creative gifts to encourage their creativity through art.

His family and friends will deeply miss Barry's kindred spirit. However, the compassion and skills that he passed on to those around him will live on for generations to come. We all miss you, but you will live in our hearts forever.