John Charles Wheeler

John Charles Wheeler passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, after a long battle with lymphoma. His kind, friendly, and caring spirit touched his beloved wife, family, and many friends.

John was born in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, to Charles and Florence Wheeler and was the youngest of three children. He spent his childhood in Akron, Ohio, before moving to Northern California for his final year of high school. At age 20, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. During his service, he was stationed in Phoenix, Arizona, where he met the love of his life and future wife, Phyllis Juarez. The two married in August 1968 and made their home in Phoenix.

John attended Arizona State University before completing six years of active-duty service in the Air Force. He then began a 35-year career as a computer programmer with Mountain Bell, which later became Qwest Communications. Through his work, John and Phyllis had the opportunity to transfer to Littleton, Colorado, where they and their three children established deep roots and became active members of their community. John remained devoted to his children’s lives, supporting them through sports, camping and outdoor groups, and school volunteer activities. He later earned his bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State University in 1996.

Throughout his life, John was a dedicated Catholic and was committed to service through the Church. He supported youth programs, regularly participated in Sunday services, and, in retirement, joined the Knights of Columbus. He embraced this role wholeheartedly, frequently volunteering at church events and supporting his Catholic parishioners. One of his favorite traditions was helping place flags along a main thoroughfare for the Fourth of July. In 2015, he received the treasured honor of Knight of the Year in recognition of his abundant dedication to serving others. In his free time, John loved reading, tending to his yard and flower garden, listening to classical music, and exploring new towns and cities.

John lived with positivity and optimism. He often had a smile on his face and a genuine spirit that was noticed and appreciated by those around him. He is survived by his brother, Thomas Wheeler; his sister, Linda Zunino; his wife of 57 years, Phyllis Wheeler; his sons, John Wheeler II and Michael Wheeler, and Michael’s spouse, Lisa McDowell; his daughter, Colleen Wheeler, and her spouse, Jonathan Bowser; his grandchildren, Merrick Wheeler,

Hannah Wheeler, Kylie Wheeler, Kendra Wheeler, John Wheeler III, Amanda Wheeler, Lauren Wheeler, Calvin Wheeler, Amelia Bowser, Drake Bowser, Lander Bowser, and his great-grandchild, Ella Wheeler. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Florence Wheeler, and his grandchild, Layton Bowser.

He will be greatly missed.