Wheeler, Richard L.

Richard L. Wheeler, Chief Warrant Officer-5, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired; received his final orders 1, Oct. 2010: “Unless directed otherwise en route, report to heaven for duty with the Marines guarding Heaven's streets.” The final entry has been made in his service record: "Job well done! Semper Fidelis!”

Known by most as “Dick,” he was born Jan. 22, 1941, the youngest child of Andrew and Ethel Wheeler, joining siblings Robert, Janice and James. Growing up in Marion and Hiawatha, Iowa, at an early age Dick worked in the family's service station, “Bud and Dick's Service” until enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1962. He served in many a clime and place until retiring in 1994. Dick assisted wife, Luralea in her “No Small Affair Party Service” in Yuma, Ariz., for over 20 years when they retired the business and relocated to Roseburg, Ore.

Married to Luralea Tibbels Wheeler, Luralea and Dick are the proud parents of Andrew and wife Tiffany, Scott, Michael and wife Jeannie; and adopted mom and stepfather to Sandra Tibbels DeKalb and husband Scott.

Dick is survived by his brothers, Robert and wife Donna Wheeler; and James and wife Edith Wheeler of Hiawatha.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Dick's name to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House, 315 18th Ave., Hiawatha, IA 52233; or a charity of your choice.