On Saturday, October 27, 2018, Claudia Ellen Whalen passed away peacefully with the love and support of the family she deeply cherished. Claudia was born August 17, 1947 in Long Island, NY. She was the daughter of the late Claus (Joe) Sprenger and the late Mary Ann Sprenger. She was the loving wife of Kenneth A. Whalen, Jr. of Sykesville. Claudia maintained a varied and robust career through the many years she dedicated to partnering with her husband Kenneth on their family's home improvement business. Prior to this, she enjoyed working as a travel agent, an occupation that continued to serve her family years after she formerly resigned. Claudia was passionate about helping others and was able to dedicate a great portion of her life pursuing volunteer work. Her most recent contribution was in partnership with her husband volunteering for the Freedom Area Recreation Council and its many programs. Claudia had many unique interests and talents: architecture, interior design, sewing, gardening, cooking, crafting, history, geography and research. She dedicated her life to sharing these gifts with those she loved. She had a special way with people. She was loved by all who had the opportunity to meet or work with her. She was smart, compassionate, sensitive, and had a great sense of humor. She was greatly admired for her intellect and took pride in sharing her wisdom with those who sought guidance. Her selflessness was unmatched. Claudia and her husband equally valued time with family and shared a mutual love of the Adirondack Mountains where they spent many summers at their cabin on Silver Lake with their grown children and their families. Here Claudia enjoyed early morning coffee on the deck overlooking the water, listening to the loons, watching grandkids play in the lake, family dinners at sunset, board games, cards, puzzles, and darts. These Adirondack traditions made her heart so happy. Claudia's family is determined to continue this legacy and will forever miss her presence at the camp. Ultimately her legacy is the connectedness she created within her family. The traditions she lovingly maintained and passed on. The love she had for her children and the value she placed on the special bond they all shared. She will forever be remembered by each of them and especially her grandchildren, whose lives were individually and uniquely impacted because she shared her time, her talents, her wisdom and values, and most importantly her love. She forever lives within the hearts of those she touched. Surviving in addition to her husband are son Thomas Cast and his wife Maricela; daughters: Jennifer Cast Galán and her husband Manny, Jennifer Metz-Walsch and her husband Michael, Amy Lynn Whalen Metz; brother Eric Sprenger and his wife Barbara LeVan; sister Cyndi Sprenger; nieces: Brie, Tyne, Yustine, Emma Rose; nephew Duncan; grandchildren: Tyler, Carter, Jacen, Logan, Penny, Dylan, Peyton, Noah and Fia.
Carroll County Times, 2 Nov 2018