INFORMATION FROM GEISEN FUNERAL HOME WEBSITE:
Arnim E. "Shad" Whisler Jr. of Lowell passed away at home May 16, 2025, at age 83 due to heart failure. Born June 15, 1941, in Chicago, he was the son of Arnim E. and Edith M. Whisler of Hobart.
Shad was a proud alumnus of Purdue University, where he earned a BS in Civil Engineering (1962) and an MBA (1964). He was a member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. He was the President of several businesses in multiple states (Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Texas and New York), where his analytical mind and adventurous spirit played a pivotal role in his achievements. Shad also taught business courses at a Purdue Calumet campus for several years and served on the board of multiple community organizations including the Lowell Chamber of Commerce, Lake County Planning Commission, Lowell Library, Tri-Creek Republican Club, and Cedar Creek Health Campus. Shad's engagement in politics and public service is a testament to his belief in making a difference in the world.
Shad was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Sharon L. Whisler (2022), by his sister Karen M. Knight (2023), and by his parents. He is survived by his children, Arnim E. Whisler (Jeanne) of Illinois and Dawn M. Harvatine (Joe) of Maryland, as well as 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and 5 nieces/ nephews. Shad's love extended beyond his immediate family to a wide circle of friends who were drawn to his friendly demeanor and his zest for life.
Shad's interests were diverse. An avid scuba diver, he explored the depths of the oceans with the same enthusiasm with which he navigated the complexities of his businesses. He loved to travel, returning from far-flung adventures with joy and a wealth of stories to share. He had a lifelong love of sports playing softball locally into his 70s, and also had a passion for debate and discussion especially of current events.
As we remember Shad, we are reminded of his fierce independence. “Invictus”, a poem that resonated for him, ends with "It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." Shad's life was indeed a success by this measure. He will be deeply missed. His legacy and memory will live on in his family and friends and fond remembrance of all that he was and accomplished.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to the Humane Society or the American Cancer Society.
A Memorial Service in his honor is planned for August 2, 2025 at 2pm at Geisen Funeral, Cremation & Reception Centre, 606 E. 113th Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307 with Tom Clark officiating.
Online condolences may be made at www.geisenfuneralhome.com.
This information and the picture below were obtained from: https://www.geisenfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Arnim-E-Shad-Whisler-Jr?obId=43602587. The picture above was obtained from the 1959 HHS Memories yearbook, made available by the Lake County Public Library, at: https://archive.org/details/HOHS1959Images/.
