Melvin F. Wheeler

Melvin F. Wheeler was born to Lewis and Lola Wheeler in Oso, Washington, in 1936 on May 25th. He graduated from Arlington (Washington) High School in 1954, and enlisted in the Air Force shortly after. Having completed basic training, Melvin married his young love, Dennise K. Burton, in September of 1956. Melvin served 4 years in the Air Force, completing his term of enlistment in Portland, OR, as Airman 1st Class.
After leaving the Air Force he attended Clark Junior College (now Clark Community College) where he received technical training. Beginning as a Machinist, Melvin left Hyster (Portland, OR) as an Industrial Engineer. In 1985 he started as an Engineer at Boeing (Portland). During his time at Boeing he was part of the design team for the Air Stairs for Air Force One. He received awards for both excellent service and strong leadership during his years at Boeing. He retired in 1995.
In retirement Melvin and Dennise moved to Grand Ronde with their backpacking llamas. He continued refining his carpentry and woodcarving skills, including canoe carving classes at the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde reservation. He first volunteered at, and was later elected as President of, the Rock Creek Water District.
Melvin is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.