Dennis Roy Wheeler

His mom Alice, Dad Les, and big brother Jim welcomed him to the Wheeler and Lear families. Five years later,, sister Kathy Joined the family. Den grew up in Hamilton surrounded by family, friends, and the beautiful Bitterroot Valley. He attended college in Seattle and Missoula before spending time in the Army with the Military Police. He completed a tour of duty in Vietnam before getting out of the Army in 1969. In February 1970, Dennis married Beth Robison in Hamilton. They lived in Seattle while he finished school before moving to Olympia where Den worked for the state for 33 years. Dennis and Beth raised three boys, Sean, Eric, and Alan in a home that they designed and built. In 2005, they moved to Tenino. Shortly after he retired, Dennis became disabled and spent many of his last years in care facilities.. He passed away Sunday, August 31, one month before his 80 th Birthday.

Dennis was very sociable and loved to spend time with family and friends. He had an incredible intelligence, sharp wit, was cheeky and thoughtful, willful, dynamic an was extraordinary storyteller. He had several motorcycles and loved riding fast and hard. Jeep racing (off road) with family filled many years and built strong friendships. He also worked with Boy Scouts while his boys were growing up.

Dennis is survived by his wife Beth, sons Sean (Corinne) and Eric, brother Jim, and several Nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Kathy, and son Alan.

There will be no formal service at this time. Dennis loved his dogs and cats so donations to organizatio0ns that support animals would be appreciated.