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Wheeler, Thomas B.

Thomas “Tom” B. Wheeler, age 80, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 after a long illness.

He was born on September 21, 1938 in Royalton, son of the late Burton and Evelyn (Whitehead) Wheeler. He graduated from Manawa High School and was the MVP in football in 1957. On April 23, 1960 Tom married his high school sweetheart Darlene Rineck. He started his truck driving career at Sturm’s, and then drove for Kampo Tank Line, Schneider Transport, Ron & Lloyds and also Hilker Trucking. In 1976, he started the family business, Tom & Dar’s, Wheel Inn. Tom was very active in his community: he was one of the founders in the New London Booster Club, a member of the Tavern League and sponsored many bowling and softball teams. He enjoyed going camping with special friends: Fermanichs, Deys, Bartmans, Bernards and Klatts and traveling to music festivals like the HODAG and Cadott. Tom enjoyed watching the Packers and all football. He was a man of strong values and perseverance and would open his heart to all who crossed his path. Tom had a special place in his heart for his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in New London, his faith and spirituality guided him.

Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Darlene “Dar”; children: Tim, Thomas, Tami (Scott) Crain, Troy (Heather) Wheeler; grandchildren: Travis (Isela) Ulman, Tate (Bridget) Wheeler, Trevor (Heika) Ulman, Ryan Wheeler, Bailey Wheeler and Triton Crain; great-grandchildren: Tashia, Tru, Wyatt, Leeland, Landon, Turner, Maddox, and Diem. He is further survived by his sister Beverly Malueg; sister in-law Lucille Timm, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, special friend Jody Thiel and many other friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Tracey Wheeler, brothers, Clifford “Satch” and Larry, a sister Ellie Dearth, and brothers-in-law, Neil Malueg and Elmer Timm.

Funeral services for Tom will be held on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Emanuel Lutheran Church, New London with Rev. Marcus Schulz officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in the Floral Hill Cemetery. The Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London is serving the family. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com.

Special thanks to Dr. David Koeper and staff and ThedaCare Hospice for the care and concern they have shown to Tom.

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