Obituary of Donald Ray Wheeler

Donald Ray Wheeler was born in Mabank, Texas on June 14, 1939. He was with us for 82 years and peacefully went to be with our Lord on May 26, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife, Wanda, of 63 years and four sons: Delbert, Steve, Jeff and Ron, along with their four wives Tammy, Brenda, Lorinda and Deanna. In addition, Don leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren....yes, that’s 37 grandchildren.

He was a devoted, loving, and supportive husband, father, and grandfather who was affectionately known as Pop or Papa, depending on who you were to him.

Don loved so many things about this life. He found great joy in being with family, hunting, welding, and making his infamous fire tubs from scrap washing machines. He thoroughly loved watching Westerns, albeit repeatedly, the Diamondbacks baseball games, and any sporting event in which one of his sons or grandchildren were involved.

He had an infectious smile and was willing to help with whatever needed to be done. Don was also well known for loving to eat sweets. It was humorous to watch him try to sneak little goodies without getting in trouble from Wanda. I’m sure he can still hear Wanda saying, “Oh Don”.

He is already missed but Don has made Heaven much sweeter, and we can’t wait to see him again. Thank you, dad, for leaving a tremendous legacy of faith, love and family!