Elaine Wheeler

Elaine H. Wheeler

Elaine H. Wheeler, age 91, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2013. She was born on April 16, 1921 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughter of William and Emma (Sager) Torbeck. She married Kenneth "Ken" Wheeler on October 4, 1941 at First English Lutheran Church in Appleton, Wisconsin. They were married 57 years before Ken passed away on April 7, 2000.

Elaine is survived by her children; James (Linda) Wheeler, Dale, Wisconsin, Suzanne (Robert) Fischer, Betty (Betsy) Wheeler, of Appleton, Wisconsin. Grandchildren; Laurie (Brian) Runge, John (Connie) Wheeler, Katie (Ian) McDermott and Kelly Hoks. Great-Grandchildren; Jessica and Kimberly Runge, Cailey, Hollie and Jaden Wheeler and Brianne Vercellotti. Elaine is also survived by her brother Donald Torbeck of Appleton, Wisconsin and a sister-in-law Selma (Howard) Torbeck and many nieces and nephews; including special niece and nephews, Richard (Stella) Wheeler and Joe (Debbie) Wheeler, Florida and Illinois, respectively.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother William "Bill" Torbeck Jr., Howard Torbeck, two half sisters, Elva and Evelyn Torbeck and her granddaughter Farrah Fisher.

Elaine worked at Tuttle Press from 1941 to 1942 and Godshall Box Factory from 1942 to 1946. She left Godshall to stay at home to raise her family until 1961, when she returned to Godshall Box Factory until retiring in 1980.

Elaine enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Elaine lived at Ridgeview Highland Apartments from 1998 to November 2010 where she was known as "The Cake Lady" by her neighbors. Elaine always delivered cookies or cake to her neighbors on their birthdays and anniversaries.

Elaine enjoyed traveling, playing the piano and organ, sewing, rug hooking and reading. In her younger days, she enjoyed motorcycle riding with Ken.

In November 2010 to the time of her passing, Elaine lived at Rennes Healthcare where she made many friends with both residents and staff.

Elaine will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She was a wonderful Mother, Wife and friend who always had a spark and zest for life.

Funeral services will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 900 N. Mason Street, Appleton, Wisconsin, where Elaine was a charter member, on Friday, April 12, 2013 with Pastor Judy Deckert officiating. Visitation will be at Grace Church from 8:30:00 AM up to the time of the service at 10:30 AM. Interment will be held at Highland Memorial Cemetery following the service.

The family wishes to thank Rennes Nursing Staff and the Team from Heartland Hospice, especially Jill, Beth, and Karen.

In lieu of flowers, Elaine wanted a memorial established for Grace Lutheran Church, Appleton, Wisconsin.