Robert J. Wheeler

Robert J. (Bob) Wheeler, 85, passed peacefully at Blackstone Valley Health & Rehab with his wife by his side, after an extended illness.

Bob was born in Worcester, MA, on June 15, 1938, the son of Merritt A. and Mary I. (Hamill) Wheeler. He lived in Worcester and graduated from Worcester Boys Trade School.

Bob entered the Army in 1961 during the Vietnam Era, serving in Korea and then stateside with the Active Reserves in the 105th Artillery, in Oakland, CA.  He later joined and was a life member of the John Weeks Post #3041 VFW of Lancaster, NH, and the Pup Tent #3 IOC.

Returning home from the service, Bob went to work for United Parcel Service as a delivery driver.  He retired as a doubles driver in 1999.  He was a member of Teamsters Local #170.  Later he worked part time for Advance Auto in Whitinsville.

He was a former member of the Whitinsville United Methodist Church where he served as Lay Leader, Head Usher, and on numerous committees.  Bob also previously served as the Treasurer of the Northbridge Little League for many years.  He enjoyed occasional trips to the casino, Thursday morning coffee with fellow UPS retirees, traveling to the Caribbean, and tending to his green lawn.

Bob leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Janet E. (Judson); his two sons of whom he was always extremely proud, Scott A. Wheeler, of Whitinsville, and Jeffrey J. (Kristen) Wheeler, of Holden; and his two granddaughters, Brinley and Alina, whom he adored.  He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and countless cherished friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, his son Robert (B.J.) Wheeler, and his siblings: William Wheeler, Irene Rudolph, Blanche Carlson, Mae Groccia, and Richard Wheeler.

A Celebration of Life for Robert will be held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Pleasant Valley Country Club, 95 Armsby Road, Sutton, MA. A period of visitation will be held from 11:30-12:15, with a service starting at 12:15, followed by a luncheon.  Burial will be private at a later time.

The family would like to thank Blackstone Valley Health & Rehab and Salmon VNA & Hospice for their extraordinary care and compassion in seeing Bob through his final journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to either Blackstone Valley Health & Rehab Activity Fund, 447 Hill Street, Whitinsville MA 01588, or the Salmon VNA & Hospice Peace Team, 37 Birch Street, Milford, MA 01757.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert J. Wheeler, please visit our floral store.