Mike Wheeler, 67

Michael Melvin “Mike” Wheeler, age 67, of White Pigeon, died Monday, April 23, 2012, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo, following a brief illness.

He was born June 15, 1944, in Pinehurst, N.C., a son of the late Melvin and Pearl Mae (Smith) Wheeler. His family moved to Centreville when he was young, and Mike graduated from Centreville High School in 1962.

He later served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. For more than 30 years, Mike worked for G.T.E. which later became Verizon, as an installer and facility technician. He loved many outdoor activities, especially fishing and camping.

On Sept. 19, 1990, Mike married Kimberly Emans in Las Vegas. She survives, along with a son, Jason Wheeler, and his companion, Carl Lichnerowicz, of Sturgis; several cousins; and his favorite puppy, Sophie.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m. Friday at Farrand Funeral Home in White Pigeon.

Memorial services will begin at 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Wilbur Brandli, pastor emeritus of White Pigeon First Presbyterian Church, officiating. A social gathering at the Constantine American Legion Post will follow.

Private interment of ashes will take place at a later date.

If desired, the family suggests memorials be directed to Pet Haven or to the American Cancer Society.