Richard James "Dick" Wheeler

Born to Herbert (Bud) Wheeler and Frances Louise Eastman (Bercau) on August 7, 1942, Richard James Wheeler began his life in Lansing Michigan and graduated from Everett High School.

In hopes of starting a career in Forestry, Dick attended Michigan State University and then worked at Diamond Reo for several years with his dad. After Diamond Reo went out of business he accepted a career opportunity at Standard Products in northern Michigan. He was known for being tough but fair and the best smelling sexy Supervisor. Dick gave his wife Tina one week to pack up and move to Gaylord, Michigan where he could also pursue his passions for wildlife, hunting, fishing, and camping.

The Wheeler household was well known and respected for an open-door policy, often taking in family and occasionally friends until they got back on their feet. They were also known for being the pitstop oasis for friends and family traveling north and beyond. Dick and Tina hosted the majority of get togethers, family functions, and parties of all kinds. Dick and Tina formed many lifelong friendships in Gaylord over the past 45 years and have been blessed to live, love, laugh and work in the beautiful area of Gaylord.

Dick passed away at home with his loving family by his side. He was preceded in death by his son, Richard Dean Wheeler; and his parents, Herbert and Frances.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Kristina L. (Marsh) Wheeler; son, Tony M. Wheeler (Anna M.); daughters, Debra Wheeler Felker (Robert), Danielle R. Wheeler Ray (Branden); daughter-in-law, Mary L. Wheeler; grandchildren, James Wheeler, Kramer Schultz, Camron Schultz, Bryce Wheeler, Alec Wheeler, Brady Ray, Delaney Ray and Amelia Murdock; and sisters, Kathleen J. Mahoney, and Suzanna L. Hoffman from Oregon.

A Celebration of Dick’s life will be July 26, 2025, at 3:00 pm, at Dick and Tina's home.