David N. Mullany, invented Wiffle ball

David N. Mullany, inventor of the Wiffle ball, died Monday (March 12, 1990) at Connecticut Hospice Branford, Branford, Conn., of complications of cancer. He was 81. A Clearwater resident for about 15 years, Mr. Mullany was a former president of Wiffle Ball Inc., of Shelton, Conn.

He hatched the idea of the familiar perforated plastic sphere in 1953, his son, David A. Mullany, said Tuesday. He was seeking to fill a need he saw for a small ball that could be put in play in confined areas without the risk of damage.

Its design also made it hard to hit, said the son, who is company president.

Mr. Mullany, who lived at 2614 Cove Cay Drive, was born in Hatfield, Mass. He was a member of Harry Bronson Country Club and Cove Cay Country Club.

Survivors in addition to his son include his wife, Ivy; two grandsons, David J. and Stephen A. Mullany; and several nieces and nephews.

Spear, Dennis & D'Arcy Funeral Home, Stratford, Conn., is in charge of arrangements.