James Harold Wheeler, III

Jim graduated in 1962 from Plymouth High School, Plymouth MI. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965 and was stationed with the 534th MP Company at Fort Clayton, Canal Zone. Upon discharge from the Army, he joined the Canal Zone Police (CZP), where he achieved the rank of lieutenant. In addition to working full time in his chosen field, he studied and graduated from Florida State University (CZ Branch) with his BA in Criminal Justice. He proceeded to attend Oklahoma State University (CZ Branch) and completed all the coursework for a Masters in Public Administration, but never completed the dreaded thesis. Always eager to learn, he completed his MA in Criminal Justice, with NOVA University (CZ Branch), in 1979. He found joy in teaching not only as a CZP training sergeant but also as an adjunct professor in criminal justice for the Canal Zone College.

After the CZP disbanded in 1982, he worked with the Panama Canal Liaison unit for a brief time and then was transferred to the Motor Transportation Division as Assistant Chief where he served until his retirement in 1991. He relocated to San Antonio, Texas, where he worked as a Bexar County Probation Officer until his final retirement in 2006. Despite all his accomplishments, when people would ask what he did, he always replied that he was a federal police officer with the Canal Zone Police. It was his identity where he found direction, fulfillment in service and thrived. "Protect and Serve" were more than a motto, it was how he lived.

Immediately upon retirement, we embarked on his three-week dream trip to New Zealand with 8 more days exploring Australia. Following this, Jim and Judi hit the road, traveling throughout the country in his beloved Suburban. A particular highlight was their 2014 trip through Canada and Nova Scotia. Jim always did all the driving! They also cruised and spent many months in their Vero Beach, Florida home. He loved his time in Florida because he was able to visit with so many former Canal Zone friends and spend time walking on the beach. He returned to Panama at least five times over the years reminiscing.

He gave time and encouragement to others through Meals on Wheels and Road to Recovery.

Jim loved nothing more than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his children's friends. No matter what was on the agenda, if they called, he was there. He knew how to fix anything, especially cars. Even in recent days he enjoyed doing projects with the next generation and passing on knowledge.

Jim was a great card player and for 25 years he traveled and played bridge with their good friends. The last seven years, they joined bridge groups in San Antonio and Florida. Jim was an excellent player and worthy opponent. He was incredibly sad to give up playing bridge.

Jim was a quiet, humble, kind, and generous gentleman. He faced his medical issues without complaint and fought bravely and valiantly until the last day. He died peacefully. James is survived by wife, Judith Warford Wheeler (BHS64); daughters, Jeri Ruth Wheeler-Hsu (BHS 89) (Peter), and Jana Wheeler Potts (BHS90) (John); son, James Harold Wheeler IV (Judith); grandchildren, Jillian Grace, John Joseph, Karis Janae, Joshua James, Zachary James, Jack Cayden, Jameson Cate, and Liberty Joy; sisters Diane, Karen and Debra; and brothers Dennis, John and Tim. In addition to his family, Jim is survived by his faithful and constant shadow, JJ, his 13-year year old Boston Terrier. He was preceded in death by mother, Grace Binnie Wheeler and sister, Carol Harris.

The arrangements are pending for his Celebration of Life. Jim's favorite charities were St. Jude Children's Hospital and Shriners Hospital for Children.