Evelyn D. (Damian) (Cudzilo) Whalen, 99, of Dunkirk passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, June 1, 2025 at Brooks Memorial Hospital with her loving family by her side. She was born in Dunkirk on May 30, 1926, wife of the late Harry "Mike" Cudzilo and Matthew Whalen; daughter of the late Lawrence and Theresa (Majka) Damian.
A lifelong resident of Dunkirk, Evelyn attended Dunkirk High School. Ultimately, she went on to work as a supervisor at M. Wiles for over 20 years.
Evelyn's greatest passion was her family. She loved spending time with her loved ones and was a constant presence at her great-grandchildren's sporting and scholastic events.
Her personality shone brightly through her loving nature and kindness, which endeared her to all who knew her.
A devout Catholic, Evelyn was an active parishioner at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church, where she participated in numerous church events, embodying the principles of faith and community service.
In addition to her family and religious devotion, Evelyn found joy in hobbies such as gardening, where she delightfully planted flowers, cooking delicious meals, and sewing. She was also a member of the Dunkirk Senior Center.
Evelyn is survived by a sister, Patricia (late Richard) Kokocinski; granddaughters, Amy (Ryan) Corbett of Dunkirk and Tricia (Alex) Dobosh of Orchard Park; and great-grandchildren, Olivia and Brady Corbett and Jacob and Chloe Dobosh. In addition to her parents, Evelyn is preceded in death by her husbands, Harry "Mike" Cudzilo and Matthew Whalen; daughter, Nancy (late Frank T.) Rozen; sisters, Joan Bielaszka, Lorraine Maslach and Irene Collins; and brothers, Harry, Chester, Joseph, Gilbert, Leon and Robert Damian.
Relatives and friends are welcome to attend calling hours on Thursday, June 5 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, Inc., 56 East Doughty Street in Dunkirk. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 6 at 11:00 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church. Interment will be held in St. Mary's Cemetery.