Edward Joseph "EJ" Whalen, 15, of Gardner, passed away unexpectedly on February 23, 2021.  He was the cherished son and best friend of Evgenia "Evie" Makkas.  EJ was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He is survived by his maternal grandmother, Ekaterina Velkos and his paternal grandmother, Barbara Whalen.  He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.  EJ loved star wars, leggos and football. He played Pop Warner in Gardner and most recently played with the Leominster Blue Devils, and for the Charity City Lions of Gardner for 4 years. When not playing football or hanging around with his friends. He had the best sense of humor and a contagious laugh. He always had a smile on his face.  He loved spending time with his Mom and always helped her with cooking.  His favorite foods were pastichio and chicken parmesan.  You could always find EJ running up and down the driveway with his English Mastiffs, Zander and Kayla.  He will be sadly missed. His funeral Service was held on Tuesday, March 3, 2021 at St. Athanasius Greek Church, Arlington, MA.  He was laid to rest at Crystal Lake Cemetery.