Search by Name

Search by Name

Gilbert Wheeler Obituary

Gilbert Edward Wheeler, 85, a devoted husband and father who enjoyed spending time in the great American outdoors hunting and fishing, and is best remembered for his great optimism, died suddenly Monday at Yuma Regional Medical Center. Born January 29, 1926, in Wrentham, MA to Phillips and Evangeline Wheeler.
Gilbert soon gained a knowledge and passion for animals and agriculture as he helped his parents on their farm. When World War II broke, rather than taking an agriculture exemption as his parents insisted, Gilbert being the true American patriot that he was enlisted in the Army and was assigned to the 97th Infantry Division as 60mm Mortar Gunner.
Upon retuning home from the war, Gilbert met and married his beloved wife of 62 years Barbara. Over the next 10 years the couple welcomed four daughters, Susan, Daine, Gail and Ellen.
In 1971 the family moved to Yuma and Gilbert took over as the General Production Manager for Shamrock Foods Ice Cream Division where he was very successful.
After Gilbert retired he maintained an active lifestyle. He worked out regularly at World Gym, volunteered at Yuma Regional Medical Center, involved himself with his church, Calvary Lutheran Church, continued to hunt and fish, and most importantly maintained strong relationships with all his family members no matter how far away they lived.
Gilbert is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughters, Susan Giddings, Diane Wheeler, Gail Rhoton, and Ellen Hobbs; brother, Harold as well as ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Please sign the guestbook at www.yumasun.com/obituaries.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Yuma Sun from Jul. 22 to Jul. 23, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Gilbert Wheeler

Not sure what to say?





Marina Martinez

July 16, 2019

Hello I would like to remember Mr. Wheeler for the great job he always did on his front yard,,it always looked beautiful. It made my husband Isaac want to do the same . Because he also admired the work he put into making his yard pretty. we Miss that slot. Thank you,,, sincerely Marina and Isaac Martinez!!!

Cindy Dillingham

August 6, 2011

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr Wheeler. He will be missed. I have such great memories of growing up in Yuma and being friends with Ellen and spending time with Mr and Mrs Wheeler. My condolences to Mrs Wheeler and Ellen and the girls. May the Lord comfort your hearts and fill the void.
Mr Wheeler will be greatly missed! Cindy Dillingham (Reeves)

Carolyn Littlefield

July 30, 2011

I will always miss my sweet Uncle Gil. We had some interesting and happy chats on facebook. Thank goodness for internet that allows people to stay connected when so many miles keep them apart. Love to all, Carolyn

Terry Rhoton

July 30, 2011

Gil is a wonderful grandfather and I appreciate his influence and his presence with my children. He helped create many special memories for them and has provided a great example of integrity, determination, and perseverance.
Thanks again Gil!

July 26, 2011

Condolences to all the 'girls', Barbara, Susan, Diane, Gail and Ellen. He always made me laugh...and what a character. He will be truely missed! Carolyn Hinton

Elwood Schmidt

July 25, 2011

a "good guy" who was always a pleasure.My condolences to Barbara

Tunnell Family

July 24, 2011

We were blessed to have Mr. Wheeler as a friend and neighbor for the last 17 years. The "yard" conversations were always a treat and the friendly greetings and smiles will be greatly missed. Gil was our biggest ally in the neighborhood feral cat war and we will always appreciate his dedication to family and community. Rest in peace, Mr. Wheeler. Our sincerest condolences to Barbara and her family.

family Martinez

July 23, 2011

Hello, we would like to send our condolence to mrs wheeler and all the family. We have been neighbors for a long time. Mr& mrs wheeler havebeen good neighbors also,they have even been there when 2 of my boys turn 18yrs old. They were when we surprise them it was good. We have a dog named michilen who always greets him when mr wheeler went out to throw his trash. Well, we will prayso god gives u all peace.

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

Make a Donation
in Gilbert Wheeler's name

Memorial Events
for Gilbert Wheeler

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Gilbert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Gilbert Wheeler's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more