Jimmy Wheeler

Jimmy passed peacefully away on March 3, 2013, surrounded by family. "Poppy Jim," as he was known to his grandchildren, was born in Fawn River Township, MI. He lived in Colorado Springs since 1965 when he and his wife, Noni, moved from their hometown of Sturgis, Michigan. Jimmy is preceded in death by his wife Ramona (Noni), his mother Marguerite Wheeler (Large), his stepmother Alice Wheeler, and his father Orval Wheeler. Jimmy is survived by his sister, Beverly Miller of Sturgis, MI; his oldest son Craig Wheeler of Colorado Springs, CO; his youngest son, Kirk Wheeler of Bellevue, WA; his grandchildren: Tiffanie Wheeler, Cassandra Wheeler, Sara Hill, Isaac Wheeler, Emma Wheeler, and; six great grandchildren: Caleb, Corey, Faith, Justice, Aiden, and Jude. Jimmy is also survived by his faithful assistance dog, Jarah. Jimmy was well known for is quiet leadership, generosity, and kindness toward others. An Air Force veteran, Jimmy received commendations throughout his brief military and 30 year postal service careers. Jimmy's volunteer work perhaps best reflects his generosity. He founded the Blue Jean Riders, a competitive horse drill team, and co- created the masthead for the local newsletter of the National Association of Letter Carriers. He and Noni spent thousands of hours as volunteers in local daycare centers, rehabilitation clinics, schools, and hospitals. Jimmy continued this legacy throughout his life, being a true "grand friend" to elementary students and guiding them in their reading and social development. As a long time caregiver for Noni, he remained involved in Parkinson's and Post Polio support groups for many years. Jimmy's passions included horses, his Mustang, the Colorado mountains, and sports. His walks with Jarah around the neighborhood will be missed. In lieu of flowers donations to Paw Pals and Canine Companions for Independence are encouraged.