Fred Holmes Wheeler

Fred Holmes Wheeler passed away peacefully June 15, 2015 at home with his family by his side. Fred was born in Lakewood, Ohio on October 2, 1931. He had been married to Elizabeth "Betty" Wheeler for 59 years prior to her passing in 2013. Fred & Betty were high school sweethearts who committed to marriage even as he entered into the navy during the Korean War and she completed college at Kent State.Fred worked very hard to support his wife and seven children Mike Wheeler (Sabrina), Ann Fewell (Mark), Doug Wheeler (Debbie), Pat Holland (Mike), Jenny Oliver (Edward), Joe Wheeler (Filiz) and Tom Wheeler (Linda). Betty also made sure that he was involved in the lives of his 20 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.He worked many years as an automobile mechanic, and eventually as Building Superintendent for the Independent Life Insurance Company in Jacksonville. He was a member of Christ The King Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.Fred had a fun loving personality. He enjoyed salt water fishing, golfing, storytelling, crossword puzzles, and just being with his friends and family. He made great sport of conversations with his daughters. His usual response to any question was “I don’t know” and to any affirmation “yeah”.Papa will be missed by the large family and many friends, but his love shall always remain with them.A Rosary will be recited at a vigil service Thur. June 18th at 6 pm at Christ The King Catholic Church, 942 Arlington Road, Jacksonville, FL. Mass will be celebrated at the same church at 11 am on Friday, June 19th. Father Thanh Nguyen will co-celebrate both services with Father James Boddie. Corey-Kerlin will direct the services.