Mike Wheeler

Wheeler, Mike, passed away, Tuesday, December 28, 2021 after a courageous 3 year battle with cancer. Loving husband of Casey Wheeler (nee Cira). Beloved father of Sofia and Tucker Wheeler. Son of Donald and Gayle Wheeler. Brother of Thomas (Shannon) Wheeler. Son in law of Salvatore and Debra Cira. Brother in law of Curt (Jennifer) Cira. Uncle of Ava and Lucca Cira; Gabby and Graysen Wheeler. Dear nephew, cousin, friend to many and Delta Tau Delta brother.

Mike was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended Parkway West High School and later Mizzou, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity.  A mathematical genius who could finish a Sudoku puzzle in record time, Mike used his skill and creativity professionally as a successful mortgage loan officer and made countless families’ dreams a reality.  Mike was warm and fun loving with a larger-than-life personality—he was usually the life of the party.  In 2004, he met the love of his life, Casey (Cira), who was with him until his last breath. They married in 2007 and welcomed two beautiful children, Sofia (11) and Tucker (8), who were  the center of Mike’s world.  A diehard Tiger football fan, he traveled to Mizzou for every home game and also frequented away games until his health prevented it. Mike also appreciated some of the finer things in life, from whiskey to limited edition Legos to clothing.  He spent time on the bourbon trail and accumulated an eclectic collection of rare whiskeys, which he loved sharing with others.  Family and friends will also remember his carefully curated Brook Brothers wardrobe, including coordinated suits, shirts, cuff links, and ties.  More than anything, Mike enjoyed spending time with Sofia and Tucker, including adventures to NASCAR races, football games, and the Go Kart track. He never refused their requests to play video games, build Legos, or just hang out. Following a shocking renal cancer diagnosis in January 2019, Mike vowed to fight for his life. A true warrior, he endured numerous surgeries, myriad treatments, and agonizing pain over the last three years to stay present in the lives of his children.  Mike will be dearly missed and forever loved. His spirit lives on in Sofia and Tucker.  

Services: Funeral service at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Monday, 1:00 p.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mizzou Alumni Association or Annie's Hope. Visitation Monday 10 a.m. until time of service. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.