William 'Bill' Leo Wheeler

William (Bill) Leo Wheeler, 74, flew away to his heavenly home Monday, Aug. 20, 2018.

He was born in Terre Haute on Sept. 3, 1943 to the late William Lodell and Vera Louise (Lowe) Wheeler.

Bill served as a soldier in the U.S. Army for 20 years (retired in 1983). He traveled with his family and alone on his many tours in Germany, Georgia, California, Alaska and Indiana. He served his country and fellow man in Vietnam. He and his family were fortunate to gain many lifelong friendships through these travels.

His many roles include cook, meat cutter, ice sculptor, food inspector, security, game warden, payroll accountant and ordained minister, Assemblies of God.

He gave much of his time and service to Wheeler Mission. He also loved nature, being outdoors and fishing.

Bill was a cherished son and brother, loving husband, dedicated father and adoring grandfather.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 56 years (married June 7, 1962), Carolyn Sue (Wright) Wheeler; daughters Leah Lynn Conn and Susan Dianna Scheele (husband Gregg); son James Christopher Wheeler (wife Shawna); grandchildren Jeremiah (wife Robin); Justyn (wife Erin), Jamaica Shaffer. Tifarah Raines (husband Aaron), Caleb McMullin; great-grandchildren, Isaac, Kayleigh, Keegan, Ellie, Emma Shaffer and Liam McMullin; siblings, Bonnie Greenlee, Nancy Wardlow, Charles Wheeler, Olan Wheeler, Agnes Gurchiek, Leonard Wheeler and Herbert Wheeler, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Thomas Wheeler; first-born son, William (Billy) Brenton Wheeler; grandson, Vincent McMullin; son in-law, Ronald Conn; and his mother and father in-law, James and Rosella Wright.

Bill cherished his family, had a compassionate and generous heart for all in need, and most loved his Savior and ministering the gospel.

Services will be conducted at 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23 in French Funeral Home, 421 E. National Ave., Brazil, with Dollas Messer officiating.

Visitation is scheduled for 2-4 p.m. Thursday.

Burial will be in Bee Ridge Cemetery with military graveside rites.

The family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to Christian Appalachian Project, P.O. Box 55911, Lexington, KY 40555-5911.

To light a candle in his memory, visit www.frenchfuneralhome.com