Michael Joseph Wheeler

Michael Joseph Wheeler, age 67, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 17, 2022, at his Myrtle Beach residence with his loving wife by his side.

Michael was born in Elmira, NY on April 27, 1955, the son of Donald Wheeler and Patricia Ann Brown Wheeler.

He moved to Syracuse, NY in 1970. He graduated from Liverpool High School in 1973 where he played basketball.  He graduated from SUNY Fredonia in 1978 and spent two years teaching at a private school in Atlanta, GA.  Michael joined the US Navy in August 1980, earning his Naval Aviator Wings in July 1982. He flew S-3’s off the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz and was a Flight Instructor from 1986 to 1990.  In 1988 Michael was hired by Delta Air Lines where he worked until retirement as Captain after 32 years of service.   He was a proud owner of a ’67 Corvette and was a member of the Myrtle Beach Corvette Club.  Michael loved golf in particular and all sports in general.  He was a LSU Basketball season ticket holder in Baton Rouge. He excelled at traveling and his love of friends and family. Michael was known for his easy smile, sense of humor, quick wit, and generosity.  Michael and Gale married on November 25, 2014, and moved to Baton Rouge, LA where they are members of Family Worship Center. Michael is preceded in death by his mother, Patricia Ann Cox and his sister, Julie (William) Hoyt.

Survivors include his loving wife, Donna Gale Stamper Wheeler; son, Patrick Wheeler; daughters, Jeri Wheeler; Kristen (Diogo) Oliveira; father, Donald (Janet) Wheeler; sister, Christine (Ignatius) Wozniak; brothers, Jeffery (Lori) Wheeler; David Wheeler; stepbrother, Kevin (Terri) Scanlin; stepsisters, Debra (Troy) Doub; Kelly Robinson; Mary (Leon) Garced and several nieces and nephews.

At Michael’s request there will be no service held. The greatest memorial to Michael occurred the last few weeks of his life when friends and family came from far and wide to express their love.  Many more would have come had they known.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Michael’s name to Sonlife Broadcasting Network, www.sonlifetv.com , the 24/7 network of Jimmy Swaggart Ministry for the preaching of the gospel around the world.  Michael would tell you that accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is the single most important decision you will ever make in your life.

Burroughs Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Murrells Inlet (843.651.1440) is assisting the family.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.