Richard A “Rick” Wheeler left his world on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, but leaving his heart in San Francisco where he spent much time in past years with many close friends. Born on February 25, 1947 in Valparaiso, he spent his entire life here and was saddened to see the city change in so many ways. He spent many years attending government meetings and was never shy in expressing his concerns. Other chapters in the book of his life were bodybuilding, theater, and antiques. He cherished the “land yachts” of the 1960’s and 70’s, most notably a 1978 Lincoln Town Car he once owned.
Two of his fondest memories were being in personal contact with Dame Elizabeth Taylor for the last years of her life and working (and meeting Hillary and Bill) on Hillary Clinton’s first run for the Presidency.
Rick was a graduate of Valparaiso High School and held a B.A. and M.A. from Valparaiso University. He was also proud of holding only two jobs in his life as the concept of loyalty was a strong factor to him! He worked through high school and college at Valparaiso Office Supply and was a career teacher at Union Township Schools. He was a founding member of Heritage Lutheran Church.
Preceded in death by parents, Bertha M. and Maurice F. Wheeler; brother, Charles R. Wheeler; godson, Paul Michael Smith; and many beloved friends and pets. Rick is survived by his sister-in-law, Maria Christina Wheeler; nephew, Anthony (Mary Jane) Wheeler; niece, Teri Marie; grand nephews, Justin and Aaron (Jessica); and grand niece, Maya. Also surviving are special friends, Judy Schlegel, Robert L. Carlie, Judy Connor, and P. Joseph Rice.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory, a private Graveside Service was held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the American Cancer Society, Independent Cat Society, or Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.
GUESTBOOK
He was an amazing art teacher and nice man. -Cyndi Hood
He was a dynamite man. My mother Barbara Hardesty just loved him. He was a teacher that I had also. Such a sad day but I know I have great memories. -Cindy Davis
My prayers and condolences to the family for their loss! -Valerie Valdez (Yuriga) - Wheeler grad
I remember Mr. Wheeler at Wheeler High School, Indiana. (Class of 1971) A great Art teacher and he had a great sense of humor. Love and peace to you in heaven Mr. Wheeler. -Sharon Shefchik Maryman
May you rest in peace, Mr. Wheeler, knowing you made a difference in so many lives. -Lesli Mikenas, WHS class of 1982
He was a great teacher! He instilled the love of art in me forever. Rest in peace, -Susan Booth (Oldham)
My condolences to Mr. Wheeler‘s friends and family. He was one of my favorite teachers at Wheeler high school. He brought out the best in his students. He was creative, funny and understanding. I can say so many things about him - all of us at the high school really liked him. He must have led an interesting life after teaching. I would love to know how he met Elizabeth Taylor, and the Clintons. God bless him- he made the world a better place. -Terry (Bruszewski) Morgan
I'm so sorry to hear he passed. Mr. Wheeler was my art teacher in 1972. I enjoyed his class so much. Later years I worked at Kmart he use to come into the store and talk to me and tell me stories and tell me jokes. Such a nice man. He will be missed. -Karla Rogers
I'll miss him. He was such a kind person. -Doug Ross
He was my favorite teacher. He was so very nice and encouraged my art. -Brenda Propes
RIP to an excellent teacher whose lessons benefitted his students far beyond the classroom. Thank you for teaching art as well as how to be better people. You will be missed. -Jacob Frohnapple
As kids, Rick and I struggled to categorize our relationship because we were the same age, but formally he was my step-uncle. As a result, we would call each other silly names and finally decided I would call him my "grandmother" and he would call me his "sister-cousin!" But we would change these up whenever we got together and it was a running joke for 60+ years. We also had many deep talks but sprinkled with his clever, intellectual sense of humor. Everyone always looked forward to and enjoyed his appearances at family gatherings. We both loved cars and I did remember driving with him in his Lincoln Town car, and what a cabin cruiser it was! Mostly I remember what a great dancer he was. When we were teens, he would put vinyl records on his record player and we would dance together on the linoleum in his parents' farm house kitchen. He taught me some great moves, and I still remember to this day dancing over and over to our favorite, the "Monster Mash." Since as the words continued, "It was a graveyard smash," I am happy he is resting peacefully in the family plot now, in Graceland, a fitting name for this star struck individual. Rest in peace, Rick, and when I join you in time, save me the first dance, please. Love, Sandra (your nephew-cousin-in-law once removed LOL) -Sandra Morrow
My deepest condolences to dear Rick's family and many friends. May Rick forever rest in peace and I know he is thrilled to be with his beloved Dame Elizabeth Taylor, and of course with his cherished family members, friends and pets, once more. While it is sad that we are left here behind to miss Rick, we will see you again some beautiful and glorious day. Plus, you left us many fond and fun memories. I (we) loved your sense of humor and fun stories...truly a wonderful man and friend. You'll never be forgotten Rick and I send you much love from beautiful British Columbia, Canada (town of Barriere)....God bless your beautiful soul...Love always, Will (I will miss Barbara the Bush Lady and your other wacky characters) -William Krzemien
My dearest Rick i am so sorry to hear about your passing. My deepest condolences to the Wheeler family and friends. I will miss you my lovely Rick. Rest in peace buddy. -Sean Labelle from Ottawa, Ontario Canada
My old friend Rick, may you rest in peace my friend. Years ago you took me under your wing and guided me in the right direction when I was on a path that wasn't good for me. I will always remember you and the funny stories and limericks you used to tell. R. I. P. From -Justin Klyn
