Larry Jon Wheeler

Larry Jon Wheeler, 83, passed away January 23, 2024 at his home in Arlington, Texas. Larry was born April 6, 1940 in East St. Louis Illinois to Lawrence Alexander Wheeler and Marie Elizabeth Wheeler (Sutter). Larry grew up in nearby Cahokia and lived across the street from the St. Louis Downtown Airport which helped spark his interest in aviation.

Larry graduated from Cahokia High School in 1958. As a student he was actively involved in athletics, especially football and basketball. Larry held the school record for the most rushing touchdowns in a single game for several years.

Larry married Joyce Ann Moore in 1961, celebrating 62 years of marriage last October.

Larry’s career was mainly working in the aerospace industry, starting as a pattern maker and finishing as a design engineer. He was also a lifelong student of golf, having scored 3 hole-in-ones and winning several amateur tournaments during his life.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, children Jon Allen Wheeler (Linda) of Midland, Jo Ann Christine O’Brien (Kevin) of Arlington, Peggy Sue Davis (Shane) of Arlington, and Jason Alexander Wheeler (Amy) of Decatur. One sister, Nancy Bowen of Greenville, Illinois. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, Jessie Kreiner (David), Jenny Spruiell (David), Hawkins Murray (Kate), Sarah Hughes (Mitchell), Kassie Perez (Adam), and Jackson Wheeler and 7 great-grandchildren Penny Kreiner, Harry Kriener, Maggie Kreiner, Olivia Murray, Eliza Murray, Ella Spruiell, and Charlotte Spruiell due this summer. Larry also was blessed with several bonus grand and great-grandchildren along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, along with many brothers-in-laws, sisters-in-laws, other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be Saturday, Feb 3, at 11:00 am at Harmony Baptist Church, 1814 W. Arkansas Ln, Arlington, Tx 76013.

Arrangements are being handled by Wade Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Pkwy, Arlington, Tx 76013.

The family would like to thank all the staff of Tender Heart Hospice for the care of Larry during these past few weeks.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Tender Heart Hospice Care, 3210 West Park Row Drive, Arlington, TX 76013, Shriners Hospital for Children, www.shrinerschildrens.org, or the charity of your choice.