Robert L. Wheelin

Longtime resident of Monroe, Connecticut, and previously of Franklin Square, New York, before retiring to Heritage Village in Southbury, Robert (“Bob”) Lloyd Wheelin, passed away peacefully on January 16th with his family by his side. He was born on November 21, 1949 in Rockville Centre, New York, and was the loving son of the late James and Angeline Wheelin (Stroh). He was 75 years old.

Bob spent his entire career in the oil and gasoline industry, notably with Sun Oil Company and Consumers Petroleum. An enthusiastic Mets fan and automobile aficionado, Bob devoted much of his free time to family and community service. For nearly 20 years, he served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for the Franklin Square Munson Engine 1 Fire Department. After moving to Monroe, he became a Knight of Columbus (Council 5987) and an active member of Saint Jude Parish. He particularly loved the annual Italian Festival, where he manned the grill for more than two decades. Bob's sense of humor and joy for life were truly special.

In retirement, Bob relished his daily "cruises." During these drives, he would often stop for car washes and surprise friends with a coffee. Bob also worked as a bus monitor for special needs children, who were fond of him. Bob's thoughtfulness and generosity were clearly evident in the way he touched the lives of those around him.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Mary, their three children, Jennifer (partner Eileen), Brian (wife Leslie), and Katie (husband Bill), along with his six grandchildren, Connor, Alex, Ben, Kenzie, Molly, and Colin. He is predeceased by his sister Marilyn (husband Fred Muller) and his in-laws Hilda Luzio Livi and Manuel Luzio.

Friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, January 23, from 4 to 7 pm at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT 06468. The funeral service will be celebrated on Friday, January 24, at 10am at Saint Jude Church, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe. Interment will occur at 1:30pm at Cemetery of the Holy Rood, 111 Old Country Road, Westbury, New York.