Whalen, Alexandra Ruth 'Alix'
Alix Whalen (Hall) passed away on Thursday February 18th, 2021, at the age of 58, after a two year long battle with cancer. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving husband David, sons Mackenzie and Connor, and soon to be daughter-in-law, Sara.
Alix was born on November 1st, 1962 in Toronto to parents Hugh and Betty Hall (Joy), and was the youngest sibling to Doug, Betsy, Hugh, Harry and Martha. She spent her early years growing up in the Forest Hill and York Mills neighbourhoods, attending the Toronto French School. At the age of 11, along with her mother Betty and siblings Martha and Harry, she moved to Thornbury where she spent the remainder of her adolescent years. It is also where she would meet and marry her soulmate, David, before settling down and starting a family at their home on Grey Road 13, right across from Slabtown.
Alix became a teacher, a job she truly loved, and spent the majority of her career at Connaught Public School in Collingwood. She was a naturally amazing educator and left her impression on countless students that passed through her classroom over the years.
She was a rock to all that had the pleasure of being close to her; always someone to go to for counsel, who truly listened and made you feel like the only person in the room. Alix genuinely cared for all of those around her and would be the first to reach out and check in, regardless of her tribulations. Her optimism and positivity were contagious and will last long beyond her years.
Alix was a lover of all things outdoors and took full advantage of the area she lived in, from many winter days spent at the Georgian Peaks Club with her family, to exploring new sections of the Bruce Trail in the summer. That love of the outdoors was in no doubt established at the Hall family cottage in Pointe au Baril – a place that Alix affectionately referred to as “the constant home in her life”. More recently, she and Dave fell in love with backpacking hiking trips and completed many memorable routes in the last several years.
Although a certain pandemic brought challenges, Alix was able to spend her last year with an abundance of family time. This was something for which she, Dave and her boys felt the utmost gratitude having been able to cherish lasting memories.
As an expression of your condolences, we ask that you donate to the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Center at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie – a place where Alix received unparalleled care from an amazing staff who constantly displayed an astounding level of attention for each person, not patient, that came through their doors. https://foundation.rvh.on.ca/supporting-rvh/memorial-giving
A celebration of life will be held locally at a later date once health conditions allow us to gather appropriately. Arrangements entrusted to the Ferguson Funeral Home in Meaford.
Details
Make a donation in memory of Alexandra Ruth 'Alix' Whalen
Donations: Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Center at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie https://foundation.rvh.on.ca/supporting-rvh/memorial-givingDonate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Dave, Mackenzie & Conor
Bryan & I are so saddened to read that Alix has passed away. She was an amazing person, always smiling, always happy. I remember like it was yesterday, our time together at the Picky Palate. She was an amazing boss ! Everyone who graced the doors loved her! Know that we are thinking of you all. Keep your memories close to your hearts – she will always be with you – we know ❤❤
Bryan & Patty Lowe
Saturday, February 20, 2021
A beautiful tribute to a most wonderful wife, Mom and friend. Alix will be remembered by so many for her very good heart, her powerful love for Dave, Mackenzie and Connor and for that twinkle in her eye when she said something mischievous. Always a true friend, I never doubted when I arrived at The Peaks at 8:00 AM for our weekend runs, I’d be greeted by Alix’s smiling face ready for some good skiing and great conversation. So many memories… Pepper Club, Trains, The Cape. David, Mackenzie, Connor and all the Halls and Whalens, keep your memories close and trust that Alix will stay in our hearts always. All my love and support,
Lynne
Saturday, February 20, 2021
David, Mackenzie and Connor and Sarah and family. We are so very saddened to hear of Alix’s passing. Another Angel truly has recieved her wings, much too soon. Alex was such a beautiful caring person, loved by everyone she met. Hoping that you can find some comfort knowing at she is always with you and in your hearts forever ♥
Saturday, February 20, 2021
My heart goes out to David and boys, friends and family. Beautiful and caring people, are taken much to early from us. My memories of Alix, at her sister-in-law Kathy’s , for the Spring Social with all the girls. Memories we hold deep in our hearts, never forgotten.
May those memories be held tight by all who loved her.
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Dear David, Mackenzie & Connor
Randy and I are so shocked and saddened to read of Alix’s passing. We know you have many wonderful memories to cherish, hold them close to help you through the difficult times ahead.
Thinking of you all.
Randy & Sandra Pyatt
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Thinking of you Dave, Connor Mac and Sara! Alix’s smile was contagious. Cherish your memories.
Cathy and Doug Shaw
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Very sorry to hear the news of Alix’s passing our sincere condolences to Dave and family ..
Gary and Bev Dillon
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Alix was always a very nice person in school. This is very unhappy news. Very sorry for your loss.
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Dear David, Mackenzie & Connor
So saddened to hear of your loss. Alix was a very special person to so many of us. Memories are what help us to go on. Think only of the good times you shared. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family.
Arlene Osborne and family
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Our prayers for strength and comfort are sent to the Whalen family during this time of grief. We had the pleasure of have Mrs. Whalen interact with all of our 4 children during her time at Connaught Public School and always found her to be willing to listen and genuinely care about all the children that would cross her path. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel and although she may have begun a new journey she will always be with her loved ones in their hearts, soul and their dreams. May she R.I.P
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Dave and family
I am so very sorry to hear of Alix’s passing. Such a wonderful person taken far too young.
Our thought and prayers go out to all of Alix’s family and friends.
Saturday, February 20, 2021
I was deeply saddened to hear of Alix’s passing. She taught my son Charlie grade 3 and was always patient and kind with him. I knew her as a parent and a colleague – she was an amazing woman and I am a better person for having known her. My deepest condolences to you all for your loss.
Saturday, February 20, 2021
David,I’m so so very sorry to hear my former patient Alix has passed away.She was always a delight to see in the office.My heart goes out to you.
Fondest regards,
Peter Phillips,MD,FCFP(C)
Bridgewater,Nova Scotia.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Mrs. Whalen was such a wonderful teacher, and even a friend. She was ALWAYS so supportive and kind. She left a huge impact on every student that she met. She was my 3rd grade teacher and she was always so patient with me. I have many very fond memories being in her classroom, and even beyond that while passing her in hallways, visiting her classrooms, or seeing her during extra-curricular activities over the years. One time in the third grade she sat me down at lunch because I was so frustrated trying to learn how to print properly because my writing was so messy. I was crying to her and telling her I couldn’t do it, but she was so patient and encouraging. We worked together on my writing skills for days until I eventually improved. After that she ended up giving me one of the toys from the toy chest as long as I promised not to tell the other students. It made me feel so special and cared about. Back then it may not have seemed like much but looking back I thank her so very much. My heart goes out to her family at this time.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
I worked with Alix a couple of years ago. She was an amazing teacher, leader, and person. I’m so sorry to hear about her passing. She will be missed❤️
Sunday, February 21, 2021
My deepest condolences on your loss of an amazing lady. She always had a smile for everyone.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Our deepest condolences to all her family and friends. I met Alix when my son started at Connaught. Although we never had the pleasure of her teaching him, she worked with him shortly as a SERT. She was always so friendly and kind. I will never forget running into her shortly after returning to the classroom. She was so excited to be back in the classroom and have a full room of students to work with again. Her kindness will continue to impact others well beyond her years! Our heart goes out to the family!
Sincerely,
Jackie Maughan
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Dear Dave and family,
Bruce & I were so saddened to learn of Alix’s passing. What a lovely lady she was, both inside and out.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Dave,Mackenzie and Connor, Alex was always a kind , caring and loving person! I will always remember our chats before and after she headed to work when she dropped her “babies “ off at my house so many years ago! She will be missed for sure! Our deepest condolences to you all!
Sunday, February 21, 2021
I am so very sorry to hear about Alix. She was such a wonderful woman – she always had time for a kind word of encouragement accompanied by that lovely smile. Thinking of you, Dave, and family.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Mrs Whalen was one of the most remarkable teachers I’ve met over the last 30 years. I can still remember when my little sister finally started wanting to read with me at night time, when we really started understanding left handed barriers in writing… She never actually taught me yet never forgot my name even as an adult years after we had been in her school.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
I had the pleasure of working at Connaught school and getting to know Alex. What an awesome person, I enjoyed spending time talking to her. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her. Rest In Peace Alex
Sunday, February 21, 2021
So sorry for your loss. She was always smiling and very friendly when we saw her.
Herb and Eleanor Gardner
Sunday, February 21, 2021
I am so saddened with the news of Alex passing. A beautiful soul with a spirit that was as large as life. An excellent educator who truly cared about the children she taught & beyond.
She taught my son Caden & was one of his favorite teachers @ Connaught. She was always there for us in troubled times & for that I will be always truly grateful.
Her presence & her beautiful spirit will always be with us, in our hearts forever. RIP Alex, your beautiful smile & your unwavering spirit is still here with us & may you find comfort in the arms of the Lord. ♥️♥️♥️
Sunday, February 21, 2021
I had the honour to work with Alix as her ea for a couple of years..Alix taught me what teaching is all about..not just academics but the mental health of a student..for this I thank you Alix as you look down from heaven..condolences to family friends and staff and students at Connaught Public School..
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Dear Dave and family,
From the time I met Alix nearly 40 years ago, she was clearly a special person. Warm, humble, witty and compassionate, she deeply loved her family and was obviously a memorable and excellent teacher as well as friend. Whenever we met over the years, the time in between just fell away, she had such a way of being fully present with others.
While she passed far too soon, she passionately loved life and lived fully for as long as she could.
As well as to Dave, Mackenzie and Connor, my condolences to her sisters and brothers who cared deeply for her and whom she valued. She will always be remembered and loved.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
I was saddened to hear this news. I had the pleasure of working at Connaught with Alix. She was a very amicable person. I will always remember the last time I saw Alix, she gave me a heartwarming hug. My thoughts are with the Whalen family and friends.
Monday, February 22, 2021
Dave and Family-Sorry to hear about the passing of Alix . I met her shortly after she moved to Thornbury and my family moved a couple of years after that. She was very outgoing and made friends easy . Alix was so full of life and was taken too soon.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Dear Dave and family, René and I send our sincere condolences for your loss.
I had the pleasure of having Alix as my mentor when I started working at Connaught in 2009. I am not only a better teacher but a better person for having her guidance and friendship. Her warm and fun sense of humor set everyone in her path at ease. She will be forever cherished.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Dear Dave and family Diana & I are saddened to hear of Alix’s passing she was a beautiful and amazing person and a joy to be around. Your memories of her life will comfort you. Our thoughts are with the Hall & Whalen Families m&d
Monday, February 22, 2021
Dave & family – I was so sorry to hear about Alix – she was a special lady whose smile lit up every room that she entered! The world & your world was a better place because she was in it! She will be missed by many!
I am keeping you all in my thoughts & prayers! Bonnie Hammond
Monday, February 22, 2021
Thoughts and prayers to Dave, the boys and Alix’s family. She was an amazing person and will be sadly missed. From hanging out in school to running into each other many times in town. Her smile was always so bright. Bill & Lori Allen
Monday, February 22, 2021
My heart goes out to Alix’s family. I had the pleasure of being her student in grade 4. She was such a wonderful, pleasant, and caring person. Alix genuinely cared for every single student that she taught, and for that, many of us are grateful. She was always the brightest smile in the room.
My deepest condolences- thoughts are with the Whalen family and friends.
Monday, February 22, 2021
To The Whalen Family,
I was saddened to read about the loss of Alix. As I remember my time at Connaught, Alix’s smile and welcoming heart is what first comes to mind. She was an amazing person to talk to, laugh with and always a listening ear as I started my career in education. When you walked into her classroom you got a sense of an amazing educator’s care, support and compassion that enabled all her students to shine.
Your family is in my thoughts.
Natalie Harper
Monday, February 22, 2021
Dave, Mackenzie, Connor and family. We were saddened to hear the news of Alix’s passing. She was an amazing woman and an inspiration to everyone she met. She will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts.
Tracy, Shannon and Bret Williams
Monday, February 22, 2021
David, Mackenzie & Conor – We were so saddened to hear of your loss. Alex will be greatly missed by many, but no more than you and your family. Know you are all in our thoughts as you go through this time together.
Monday, February 22, 2021
Dear Dave and family:
I was saddened to hear that Alix passed away.
My sincere condolences to all of you.
I first met Alix when she worked at Duntroon School and then again when I worked at Connaught School as an E.A.
Alix was a wonderful woman and an amazing teacher.
Alix will be missed by all.
Monday, February 22, 2021
David, Mackenzie, and Connor
Incredible gal in all ways. Loved her energy and unconditional love for all. True loss.
All our positive vibes are coming your way. Now and forever. Tons of love Cathy, Georgia, Christine, and Cale. The Lancey’s
Monday, February 22, 2021
Alix was such a positive, happy person and she always made you feel special when she was talking to you. She will be missed. We were very sad to hear this news. Our hearts go out to Dave and the boys.
Monday, February 22, 2021
The Halls were our next door neighbours on Russell Street and Alix was Carson’s sitter – the best we ever had! A couple of years ago Carson and Alix met each other at the Drake in PEC. Memories of great neighbours and wonderful sitters last a life time!
Monday, February 22, 2021
David,
I was very sorry to hear of Alix’s passing. I have fond memories of her from my own childhood summers at Pointe au Baril, at the cottage next to hers. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Eric Field
Monday, February 22, 2021
We are very saddened to learn of Alixs’ passing. She led a life that touched so many people and she will be remembered by all who got to know her. She was a remarkably good person – kind, generous and loving are only a few of the qualities that describe her. So many wonderful memories of special times spent with Alix. What an amazing woman.
Our thoughts are with Dave, Connor, Mackenzie and Sara as well as all the Whalen and Hall families.
Monday, February 22, 2021
Alix really was the finest person I have ever known. I loved her humour and wit. She was beautiful, brave, considerate and real. But the word that I think of most when I think of Alix is GRACE.
Sleep easy my friend (Felix)
– Hector
Dave, Mackenzie and Conor
We are thinking of you and sending our condolences with love.
– The Cameron family
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
David and family,
Wayne and I were so shocked and saddened to find out about Alix. Please accept our sincere sympathies and, should you have the opportunity, pass them on to the Hall family.
Heaven has gained an angel but I fear we have lost one here on Earth.
Wayne & Elizabeth Park
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
Dave, Mackenzie, Connor and extended family,
Mom and I send our thoughts and prayers to all of you. Alix was a wonderful person, so full of fun and grace. I remember fondly our time in Whistler when we were all living in the same house, oh so many years ago. And I’m so glad I was able to see you and catch up a couple of summers ago when I visited in Collingwood.
She will truly be missed but will forever be in your hearts.
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
Dave Mackenzie Connor and Sarah,
Well, Alix is the only person I have ever had a nip of scotch for breakfast with….those kayaking trips. I feel blessed to have known you all for so long, to have had a friend who became a colleague. Working with such an incredible teacher who was also a friend was sublime. Your journey as a family, seeing you guys grow into the men your parents crafted, and seeing how you looked out for and after your mom through this crazy time we are in, I have only admiration. Connor for some reason I still have a picture of you on my fridge of trampoline days with Joey, Zach and Kyle. You were surrounded by a big hug as you prepared to say goodbye to your mom, and I think now you are getting a wider picture of just how special she was to so many coworkers and students. I will miss my hiking and kayaking buddy. The last year she was at work we were in the same class….it was wonderful! We’ve lost someone very fine way too soon. Love to you all. I am beyond touched that she got to see the paintings I did for you all and that she had hers close by when she passed. She is in every sunset now. Love to you all. Maureen
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
Dear Dave, Connor, Mackenzie and Hall family siblings,
I was so saddened to hear of your loss of Alix. I know she fought a hard battle with grace, dignity and a positive attitude. Whenever I ran into Alix in Pointe au Baril, in Collingwood or at a ski hill when the boys were racing, she always had a sparkle in her eye, a smile on her face and a friendly hug. It was always a joy to catch up with her and hear about her family. She adored Dave and her boys to the ends of the earth. She had the brightest spirit of anyone I knew and I know you will all cherish her forever. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Sandy Boeckh
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Dear David and family – we were so sorry to hear the news of Alix’s death. She was lovely and there will be a huge hole in the community and your lives. Peace and wonderful memories.
Norine and Garth Baron
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Our sincere condolences to you and your family , Dave. We were very sorry to hear of Alix’s passing. She was always a wonderful woman, friend, teacher, mom, wife and sister. Steve Gilchrist & Linda Kerst.
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
David, I was so saddened to hear earlier today about Alix. Although I haven’t seen either of you in many years, I have fond memories of the early days in Collingwood and especially that first year in Whistler, when we all shared a cabin. She was always such a sweetheart. My sincere condolences to you, your family and the Halls.
Friday, February 26, 2021
From the Hare family. My mom Jean and myself send our love for an incredible person. No matter what stage of grief you are in, God wants to walk alongside you. He won’t push you to move faster or to move on, He will guide you and give you strength for each step
Monday, March 1, 2021
Dear Dave, Mackenzie and Connor
Our thoughts are with you all – Alix was such an amazing person and she will be missed by the many that had the pleasure to know her.
Your many beautiful memories will keep her with you always
Heather and Peter Metzger
Monday, March 1, 2021
Dave and Family
Please accept our sincere condolences on your loss.
Ray and Janice Pursiainen
Friday, March 5, 2021
David & Family,
I was so sad to recently hear of Alix’s passing. I have very good memories of working with/for her at the Picky Palate back in the early 90’s. She was always cheerful and positive and I remember her great smile. And then so pleased for her that she was able to go on and become a teacher. My sincere sympathy to you David, and your family.
Susan Eijsenck
Friday, March 5, 2021
Dearest Dave, Mackenzie, and Connor,
I will fondly remember my memories with Alix as a colleague at Connaught. The adjectives that come to mind when I think of her are – respectful, compassionate, helpful, and always determined to bring out the best in her students and colleagues.
I also had a personal connection with the Whalen family dog-sitting at their charming home in Heathcote (Teddy was a sweet pup). I will forever be grateful for Alix and Dave opening a space for my Ma to lead yoga and meditation classes. Alix was a very spiritual and mindful person. Thank you for believing in my Ma. May you rest and rise in peace.
Pareen & Shivraj Gill
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
Dear Dave and family and the Hall siblings,
My sincere condolences. It was such a shock to read about Alix’s passing. It is heartbreaking for all of you. She was a lovely person.
Kate Simpson, (better known to you as Kathy Dinsmore)
Friday, March 12, 2021
With such a heavy heart Dave, Mackenzie & Conor, I’m so very sorry your family & this world has lost Alix. Truly she was the salt of the earth kind of person and always has been, from our youngest days in school. Alix loved all her boys so deeply and always spoke of you all with her gentle and kind smile whenever we crossed paths over the years. The hole left in your hearts is incomprehensible. May there be some small consolation in knowing how respected she was and has been her whole life for the beautiful person she was. With such sadness, Kellie Casey