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- Leanne Moringlanes - www.huntoonfamily.net: I0005
Robert was born February 2, 1890 in Chicago, Cook, Illinois. In 1904, after the death of his father, Robert and his family moved to Elgin, Illinois. As a young man, he worked at the old Creamery Package Co. and later at the Illinois Watch Case Co., plant.Robert enlisted in the United States Navy in 1908 and served three years aboard the old U.S.S. West Virginia, the ship that was used around the world cruise for President Roosevelt.After his return to Elgin, he met and married Lelah Huntoon (born June 22, 1891 in LaPorte, Indiana) on June 12, 1911 in Chicago, Illinois. Robert then worked as a street car conductor for two years before joining the fire department in 1913. He was stationed at Engine Company No. 5 for ten years. In 1923, Robert was made acting captain and transferred to the central station and then made permanent captain.Robert was made chief of the department in 1931 and remained in that position until his retirement in 1942. Robert then went to Rantoul where he was made chief of the fire fighting force at Chanute Air Field and he retained that position until 1948 when he resigned because of failing health.Robert and Lelah were member of the First Methodist Church. Robert was also a member of the Elgin Lodge A.F. & A.M., and a past patron of Chapter 212, Order of Eastern Star. He was a charter member of the Elgin Safety council.Robert died March 19, 1954 and Lelah died December 30, 1965. They are both buried in the Lake Street Memorial Park, Elgin, Illinois. 12/94ObituaryFuneral seervices for Robert E. Whalen, 64, of 710 Jay St., former Elgin fire chief, who died in Sherman hospital this morning, will be held at the O'Connor funeral home at 2 p.m. Monday. The Rev. Carleton C. Rogers, pastor of First Methodist church will officiate, and burial will be in Lake Street Memorial Park. Friends may call at the funeral home Saturday evening and Sunday.
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