Jack Owen Wheeler

His early years were spent in Charlotte until the family moved to Alden where he attended school and graduated in 1949 from Elk Rapids High School. He was an often feared left handed pitcher on the high school baseball team. After graduation, he played on the Alden mens team and was very proud to tell people he hit a ball into Torch Lake.

He served in the U.S. Navy for four years during the Korean Conflict serving as a boiler tender on the carrier THE WASP. Jack enjoyed fall spear fishing with his dad on Torch Lake, and ice fishing on Clam Lake. He also enjoyed hunting and maintaining a large weedless vegetable garden. He was a carpenter working for the Walling, Steiner, and Wanigans Construction Companies.

Jack married the love of his life Gloria Jean Miller on July 22, 1961. They were blessed with two sons; Scott Owen of Williamsburg and Darren Earl (Martha) of Lisle, IL. He is also survived by two grandsons; Brian and Christian, two granddaughters; Jennifer (Jesse) Anderson and Lesly Wheeler, two step-grandsons; Michael (Kristen) Koon and Jason (Michelle) Koon, great-grandchildren Talon and Allie Anderson and step great grandchildren Taylor (Taylor), Trevor and Azaliah Koon, and brother Robert (Betty) Wheeler of Traverse City. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved dog Boots.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 11:00 from the Covell Funeral Home, 312 Pine St. in Elk Rapids. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am until the time of service. A luncheon will follow at the First Presbyterian Church of Elk Rapids.

Memorial contributions appreciated to the Silver Muzzle Cottage, 3785 Rice Rd. NW, Rapid City, MI. 49676