Eugene Lawrence Wheeler

Eugene “Gene” Lawrence Wheeler, 70, of Valrico, Florida passed away May 29, 2018 surrounded by his family. He was born in The Bronx, New York on September 22, 1947. Gene served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Germany. He married his wife, Teresa, in 1984 and they lived together in New York for 30 years before moving to Florida. Gene had a long and fulfilling career as an Electronics Technician and was a member of Local Union 3, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Gene was actively involved with multiple veterans organizations throughout retirement with roles including Volunteer for Staten Island Project Homefront, Volunteer Coordinator at Veterans Memorial Park, Second Vice President of the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County, member of Rolling Thunder Chapter 11, and Volunteer for fundraising benefits at the Haley House Fund. He is survived by his wife, Teresa; his daughter, Francine; his son, Eric; and his beloved dog, Neo. He will be greatly missed by his family and the many people he has touched during his life. There will be a memorial luncheon held on Sunday, June 10 from 11 AM - 1 PM at Veterans Memorial Park, 3602 US-301, Tampa, FL 33619. The following day, Monday, June 11, a burial with honors will be held at 10:30 AM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.