Joseph David Wheeler

Joseph David Wheeler, 67, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026 at the Village of St. Edward in Fairlawn.

Born on October 3, 1958 at St. Thomas Hospital in Akron, Ohio, Joe was the son of the late David G. and Patricia A. Wheeler. From childhood, he knew he wanted to be a firefighter. He and his cousins listened faithfully to scanners and chased fire trucks around town. That dream became reality when he proudly served as a firefighter and medic for the City of Akron for 25 years. Even in retirement, he continued listening to his scanner to stay connected with the department from home.

Joe loved spending time outdoors gardening, tending his yard, and grilling for family and friends. In the evenings, he could often be found in his favorite chair watching COPS. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor and a gift for being silly that endeared him to everyone who knew him. A faithful parishioner at St. Eugene in Cuyahoga Falls, he continued to worship each week after moving to the Village of St. Edward in Fairlawn. A lifelong animal lover, Joe shared his life with many special pets and is survived by his dog and faithful companion, Rebel, as well as his grand-dogs, Tessie and Shamrock, and grand-tortoise, Koopa.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his beloved aunt, Maureen Ohmer. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of over 42 years, Jacqueline Wheeler; children, Dr. Dan Wheeler and Courtney Wheeler; siblings, Cathy (John) Canale, Mary Ellen (Frank) Padula, Jim (Ginette) Wheeler, Beth (Mark) Goga, and Tim Wheeler; special cousins, Bill and Chris Wheeler; and many nieces, nephews, and extended relatives.