Rick Matoy

November 11, 2019

I believe I met Mr. Wheeler in 1966 because that's when I met his son Doug we were both in 4th grade (9 years old). We continue to to be friends (Brothers) at this amazing age of 62.

Little did I know that something Mr. Wheeler was going to share with me Biblically was going to give me great comfort 30 years later.

I had just read the Bible and was feeling pretty proud of myself. Doug and I were at the community center in Norco, California playing on the old fire truck in the playground area. Mr. Wheeler was playing Softball there as well. I remember this like yesterday.

Somehow we got on the subject of Judas Iscariot committing suicide after betraying Jesus. I being all cocky was stating how all folks who commit suicide went to Hell. Mr. Wheeler walking by after the game overheard this statement and corrected me right away. "Rick everyone who takes their own life does not go to hell."

It's so amazing how God gives us lessons and prepares us sometimes years in advance. How did Mr. Wheeler's words help me thru one of the roughest times in my life?

Thirty years later my Beautiful Sister took her own life. During my darkest days of regret and heart retching agony.

Mr. Wheeler's words came back to me from my childhood.
(Rick everyone who takes their own life does not go to hell.)

I have never shared this story nor did I ever thank Mr. Wheeler for the most timely words so many years ago. But I know he knows my heart now. He will always be Mr. Wheeler to me even if I live to be one hundred. But this one time I will use his full name.

Richard Don Wheeler,
Thank you for your influence and wise words. Thank you for your Son and my friend. Most importantly? Thank you for your walk with God! I have always admired you for your relationship with God.
Have fun with Barbara in Heaven.

Rick Matoy

Tim Powell

November 11, 2019

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Richard. I have fond memories of him visiting Shelby County. He was a really neat man with a quick smile. Some of my favorite memories was when we talked softball and motorcycles, two of my favorite hobbies. I know you all are grieving for your Dad, as I still do for my parents. This being Veteran's Day reminds me of his immaculately polished shoes. Carolyn, Doug, Patsy, and Rusty you are in my thoughts and prayers. With Love, Tim and Donna Powell

Pam Hibbard

November 7, 2019

My Uncle Richard was a true southern gentleman. He lived in California a long way from Center, Texas where he was born and raised. He would drive ever 4 to 6 months a year to visit his Mother,
Step Dad, his sister and his brother Gilbert Wheeler (My Dad). Of course we would all get together and my Dad would cook steaks. He loved when Richard came in so they could catch up on everything. They would go look at Uncle Richards land he had in Arcadia and walk the beautiful wooded acres. What a wonderful time we all had. I know he is in Heaven and getting to see his loved ones that went before him. I am so thankful I have Happy Memories of my Uncle Richard. I will miss him and his smile. My prayers are with his family. Love, Pamela Wheeler Hibbard

FROM THE FAMILY