E. Craig Wheeler, age 83 of Highland, IL, died Thursday, June 6, 2024, at his home in Highland, IL.
He was born on Saturday, March 22, 1941, in Huntington, WV, the son of William and Betty (nee Watkins) Wheeler.On Tuesday, August 2, 1960, he married Rebecca J. Wheeler, nee Martin, at Parkersburg, West Virginia, who survives.
He was a member of Evangelical United Church of Christ; Highland Masonic Lodge #583; AF & AM (former Treasurer); St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary; Registered "Boy Scouter" by Council, Scoutmaster of Troop #43 (1972-76); Webelos Leader; District Training Chairman (1975-77); and COR between scouts & church.
Craig was born at Huntington , West Virginia and graduated from West Virginia University in 1968 with a degree in business. After graduating, he spent 4 years in the US Air Force. He and Becky moved to Highland, IL, a number of years ago and they both integrated themselves into the community. He was named Highland Jaycees of the month in June of 1970. Served as an EMT for several years. For a number of years he was the Treasurer of the Masonic Lodge. He was very active in Boy Scouts, serving on a variety of committees. He also received many Scouting awards: Silver Beaver in 1994; District Award of Merit in 1976; Century Member in 1982; a Distinguished Service Award from the Highland community in 1978. In addition, he served scouting as Scoutmaster of Troop #43 (1972-1976); Webelos' Leader; Kickapoo District Training Chairman (1975-1977); and served on13 Wood Badge courses as well as Course Director. Craig was also presented with a Meritorious Achievement Award by his employer. He currently was serving as COR between his church and the Scout's Council. He loved to golf and enjoyed playing bridge; he was also an excellent woodworker. He often made wood gifts for others. Becky and Craig loved to travel. Together they had visited Germany, Italy, China, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and most of the United Sates. They also enjoyed cruises to Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Alaska, Panama Canal and the western Caribbean.
Survivors include: wife-Rebecca J. Wheeler, nee Martin, Highland, IL; son-Steven C. (Sharon L.) Wheeler, Lebanon, IL; grandchildren-Andrea M. (Wesley) Freezeland, O'Fallon, IL and Eric C. (Fiancée Arielle Kishinanicarroll) Wheeler, Portland, OR; Great Grandchildren-Emilia G. Freezeland, O'Fallon, IL, Lilith I. Freezeland, O'Fallon, IL and Evelynn S. Freezeland, O'Fallon, IL.
He was preceded in death by: Parents-William J. and Betty Mae Wheeler, nee Watkins; daughter-Cara Jennifer Wheeler; and sister-Sandra S. Baisden.
Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL. Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, June 28, 2024, at Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL and from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland, IL.
Memorial Service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland, IL, with Rev. William E. Kapp, Pastor, officiating.
Interment will be in Highland City Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Highland Masonic Lodge #583, or Scouting Programs at Evangelical United Church of Christ.
