Fred John Wheatley

Fred Wheatley was reunited with his beloved wife, Donna on Sunday, October 17, 2010 when he passed from this life into eternity at age 78. He was born April 3, 1932 in Racine, son of the late Lawrence and Florence Wheatley. He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. On May 21, 1955 he married Donna Doll. Together they raised seven children on a farm in rural Athens. Fred taught his children the benefit of hard work as well as the importance of having fun together. He had a gift to make others laugh with his quick wit and humor. He was also a talented singer and guitar player. Our hearts are full of those treasured memories. Fred was one man but touched so many lives in the roles he played. He was a loving son, brother, friend, husband, father and grandfather. He was special and unique and we love and miss him very much. He is survived by his children, Diane (Jim) Alber, Robert (Michelle) Wheatley, Sandy (Larry) Vesely, Laurie Rausch, Steve (Cindy) Wheatley, Mary (Steve) Groshek and Barb (Peter) Albrecht; five sisters, twenty grandchildren and two great granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Donna, and an infant daughter, Carol Ann, one grandson, Jacob, and one brother, Leo. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens. The Very Rev. Charles Hiebl will preside. Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service all at the church. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com