James Wheeler

May 8, 1945 - July 3, 2010

James J. Wheeler, age 65, of Oscoda, formerly of St. Clair, died Saturday, July 3,2010 at Tendercare Nursing Home of Tawas City. He was born May 8, 1945, (V-E Day) in St. Clair , the son of the late James F. and Helen E. (Kaufman) Wheeler. Jim was a 1963 graduate of St. Clair High School and earned his BS degree in education from Eastern Michigan University in 1967. He taught 4th grade one year for the East China Public Schools then 7th and 8th grade language arts, social studies and public speaking for the Mt Clemens School District for 24 years. In his youth he was an Eagle Scout (Troop 50, St. Clair) and a past Master Counselor of S. Ward Chapter Order of DeMolay in Marine City. He was a certified life saving swimming instructor and taught hundreds of children to swim in the St. Clair Community Pool. His memberships included: St. Peter's Lutheran Church- St. Clair, Grace Ev. Lutheran Church- East Tawas, Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity, Marysville Coin Club, President and charter member of the Iosco County Coin Club- Au Sable Twp., FOE Post 2588-Tawas, American Lighthouse Society, Au Sable-Oscoda Historical Society and Museum, the M.E.A. . He was a 50 year veteran of the Boy Scouts of America, an active camper, he earned his wood badge in adulthood. At one time he had an extensive Edward the VIII collection which he later donated to a museum in Canada because he wanted to share it with others. He enjoyed driving his many sports cars. He was an avid reader, especially history. Being a civic minded person, Jim worked the St. Clair and Oscoda election polls. Jim along with his sister, was a devoted caregiver to their parents for 42 years. He is survived by his sister, Sharon Ann Wheeler of Oscoda, his soul mate of 27 1/2 years, Gloria A Wurth , of Oscoda, dear friends, Spencer and Gloria Redmond of Clinton Twp., Goddaughter, Cara Stegner, of Sterling Heights and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his father , James F. Wheeler on May 3, 1994 and his mother, Helen E. Wheeler on August 6, 2006 . To honor his wishes a private service was held, Friday, July 9, 2010, The Rev. Denise Gundersen of Grace Lutheran Church officiating. Burial was at Hillside Cemetery, St. Clair. Arrangements were made by Buresh-Bennett Funeral Home, Oscoda and L.C .Friederichs & Son Funeral Home, St. Clair