Obituary
Elaine Whalen – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, July 25, 2025. She was 80 years old.

Born and raised in Somerville, Elaine was the devoted daughter of the late Damiano and Silvia (DiPerna) DiMille. A lifelong resident of the city she loved, Elaine lived a life marked by creativity, dedication, and deep devotion to her family.

Elaine had a love for travel and found great joy in exploring new places, especially alongside her beloved husband. Whether near or far, she cherished the experience of discovering something new and making memories with those she loved.

A talented and meticulous crafter, Elaine had an eye for beauty and detail. If she saw something she liked, she would spend countless hours perfecting the details from the first spot of glue to the final ribbon. Holidays and occasions were her time to shine and she never missed a moment to make a batch of her custom chocolate pops and bars. Her creativity was endless.

Elaine was also a phenomenal cook and kept the tradition alive utilizing many of her mother’s favorite recipes. Her kitchen was often filled with the warmth of her cooking and the laughter of those she loved. Many of her favorite memories were spent entertaining family and friends over an abundant spread of appetizers, meals, and desserts. Her philosophy was all are welcome at the table.

Above all, Elaine was a devoted mother and an even prouder grandmother. She spoke with glowing pride about her children and grandchildren, celebrating every milestone and accomplishment with joy and love. Her family was the center of her world.

Elaine also gave back to her community through service. She was a dedicated Vice President of the Pope School PTA and worked as a lunch aide at St. Ann School. Her profession as a book keeper lasted for many years before moving on to a more heartfelt career as a nanny. Over the years she cared for more than 20 children including some of which she was fortunate to form lifelong bonds starting from early childhood into adulthood. Many of these friendships were life-lasting.

Beloved wife of Kevin E. Whalen. Devoted mother of James Whalen and his wife Rene of Cumberland,RI and Scott Whalen and his wife Kim of Wrentham. Cherished grandmother of Courtney, Ryan, Jaclyn, Kenzie and Brody. Dear sister of Daniel DiMille and his wife Pam of Johnston, RI and the late Anne Gavin and her husband Robert, and Nicholas DiMille and his wife Rosemary Norten DiMille. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral procession will be held on Saturday, August 2nd from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House SQ.) Somerville at 9:00AM. Followed by funeral mass that will be celebrated in St. Catherine Church, 179 Summer St., Somerville at 10:00AM.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, August 1st from 4:00PM to 7:00PM.

Services will conclude with entombment at Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Elaine’s name to Dana Farber Yawkey 9, Infusion and Breast Oncology Department, 450 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA 02215.