Marty Wheeler, 81

Martha Rae “Marty” Wheeler, age 81, of Sturgis, passed away Tuesday afternoon, December 26, 2023 at her home.

She was born on March 23, 1942 in Sturgis.

Marty resided in the Sturgis area nearly her entire life, and was a member of the Sturgis High School class of 1960.

On May 28, 1960 she married the love of her life Eugene C. “Gene” “Wheels” Wheeler in Colon. He preceded her in death November 7, 2021.

Marty was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker.

She was a member of Women of the Moose #613, Eagles Auxiliary Lodge #1314 and Neuman-Wenzel Post #73 American Legion Auxiliary. She and Gene for many years participated in bowling and golf leagues. When they would dance it was absolutely beautiful, no counting steps or beats, just a natural flow of knowing and loving your partner. She enjoyed scrapbooking, flower gardening, working in her flower beds, camping and traveling. Marty cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and found true peace and tranquility while sitting in her back yard swing next to her Koi pond and hummingbird feeders.

She is survived by her daughter: Dawn (Howard) King of Mendon; sons: Raymond (Shana) Wheeler of Thayne, Wyoming, Fred (Terri) Wheeler of Yuma, Arizona, Jeff (Sandy) Wheeler of Visalia, California and Walter (Sherri) Wheeler of Sturgis; grandchildren: Jesse (Cindy) King, Josie (Aaron) Marshall, Charlie (Casey) Wheeler, Becky Wheeler, Brittany (Gino) Fumia, Jeremy (Krystan) Wheeler, Angel Wheeler, Cody Wheeler, Avery Wheeler and Brianna Wheeler; 13 great grandchildren and expecting number 14; sister: Sandy Yake of Sturgis and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister: Diane Caldwell.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. Private graveside services and burial of the remains will take place at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Sturgis.

The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.

The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mrs. Wheeler’s memory consider the See Me Home Senior Dog Sanctuary, 25019 Featherstone Rd., Sturgis, MI 49091.

We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.