William Marsh “Bill” Wheeler, 82, passed away at Putnam Heritage Assisted Living at Ottawa, Ohio, on May 26.

He was born on June 11, 1939, and was adopted by the late W. L. Wheeler and Margaret Marsh (Wheeler) Symons. In 2008, Bill was blessed through a genealogist to connect with his biological mother, the late Julia Canfield. He was married to Delores Henson on December 20, 1982, and she preceded him in death October 30, 2016.

Bill graduated from Howe Military School, Howe, Indiana. He had an eight-year tour of duty serving as an electronics technician in the U.S. Navy during the mid-1960s and soon after his honorable discharge from the Navy he went to Lincoln Electric School in Cleveland and owned and operated Wheeler Welding in Van Wert, Ohio. Through his love of flying in the Navy, he obtained his pilot’s license and enjoyed being an instructor. 

In 1971, Bill pursued a career as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration. After retirement from the FAA, Bill was able to explore all fifty states by driving a semi-truck and worked as a work camper at many AV campgrounds and airports. Wild Bill’s favorite pastimes included square dancing, book writing, visiting the senior center and telling his stories. He marched to the beat of his own drum. He attended the Beaverdam Church of Christ.   

Survivors include daughter, Cynthia (Bruce) Moser, Columbus Grove, OH.  Grandchildren: Benjamin (Evania) Moser, Bluffton, OH, Molly (Trevor) Meyer, Columbus Grove, OH, Rachel (Michael) Miller, Louisville, KY.

Great-grandchild: Zebedeo Moser and baby Meyer due in July 2022.

Former wife: Martha Evans Vazquez.

Siblings: Gerald L. and Rosalie Canfield of Wadsworth, OH; Eugene f. Canfield of Medina, OH; Marilyn H. Canfield of Denver, CO; and Phyllis G. Canfield of Cleveland, OH.

The family wishes to thank the staff and residents at Putnam Heritage Assisted Living and Mercy Health Hospice for excellent care and love. 

Per his request, Bill chose to donate his body to science through Medcure.  In honoring his wishes there will not be visitation or a funeral service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Beaverdam Church of Christ or the Putnam Heritage Activities Fund.