Lillian Wheeler

Lillian “Snooks” May Wheeler (nee Wieland) passed away peacefully at Charter Senior Living Care Center in Essexville, Michigan with family by her side on August 8, 2024 at age 92 years.

Lillian was born to the late Benjamin and Esther (nee Buechler) Wieland on April 19, 1932 in Bay City, Michigan. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her children: Daughter Peggy (Ralph) Brandle of Stevensville, MI; son Glen (Janelle) Steele II of Frankenmuth, MI; son David (Suzanne) Steele of Baroda, MI and daughter Rachel (Mitchell Martin) Steele of Fairgrove, MI; seven grandchildren, nine great-grand children , one sister Ruth King, sisters-in-laws Nel Wieland and Nancy Wieland and many nieces, nephews, close cousins and friends.

Lillian was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Wheeler, her son Michael Steele, her mother and father, brothers Robert and Carl Wieland, Sister Kathleen Ralph, brother- in-laws Fred King and James (Banks) Ralph. 

Lillian was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Fairgrove, MI and Bethany Lutheran Church in Leesburg, FL. She was dedicated to her career-long nursing profession. She loved camping with her children at various locations around Michigan but her most beloved campground was the Bay City State Park. Over the years Lillian frequently volunteered at Bay City Players, historical homes tours, the Economy Center and sang with the Bay Chorale. In her younger years, she was an avid bowler. Throughout her lifetime, she loved to dance and never passed up a chance to play Euchre or the Marble Game. For almost 25 years she spent winters at her home in Corley Island, Leesburg FL. A few years ago, she moved to Fairgrove and always enjoyed spending time with her family, often hosting cook outs in her back yard.

The family sincerely thanks the staff of Charter and AHHC for Lillian’s excellent care.

Visitation will be held at Gephart Funeral Home on August 19, 2024 from Noon until 4:00 p.m. with a memorial service at the funeral home immediately following the visitation at 4:00 p.m. Officiating will be Pastor Josh Haller. Donations may be made in Lillian’s memory to Grace Lutheran Church, Fairgrove MI or the Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester, MI.