Murrell Lee Wheeler

Murrell Lee Wheeler, age 86, of Lima, passed away following open-heart surgery at St. Rita’s Medical Center on February 7, 2026. Murrell was born July 7, 1939 in Menifee County, KY to Opal and Lemon Wheeler, who preceded him in death. He was the second child of 11 siblings.

Murrell loved to fish, play pool, work in his garden, and host family gatherings. He especially loved his backyard squirrels that he fed and played with daily. Murrell worked as a truck driver for 33 years, most of those being for Scot Lad Foods, where he received several safety and service awards.

Murrell is survived by a daughter, Anita (Wheeler) Ross; five sisters: Judy Thomas, Fern Woosley, Kathy Toy, Brenda Stroub, and Linda (Bobby) Patton; three brothers: John (Betty) Wheeler, Tom (Linda) Wheeler, and David Wheeler; sister-in-law, Barbara Tashman; brother-in-law, Augie (Ruby) Ermi; honorary brother, Ray Carroll; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Mary Ann (Ermi) Wheeler; two brothers, Chester Wheeler and Ron Wheeler; and their beloved pet, Pooh Bear.

His family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 12 - 2 p.m. at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Father Mike Sergei will officiate. Entombment will follow at Gethsemani Cemetery Mausoleum, Lima.

Memorial contributions may be made to Deb’s Dogs.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.