CARROLLTON — Michael Dean Wheeler Sr., 60, of Carrollton passed away on May 25, 2019.  Michael was the son of the late Vernon Lee Wheeler and Ethel Taylor Wheeler.  Left to cherish his memory are his four daughters; Katie Shucker, JoAnne Carpenter, Hope Renee Major and Jessica Wheeler; two sons, Michael and Jason; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; his sister, Trudy Settles; brothers, Jerry Lee Wheeler and Larry Keith Wheeler; and mother of four of his children, and life-long friend, Bobbie Sue Wheeler. 

For the last few years, Sarah Loewen has held a very special place in his heart. He experienced many firsts with her, and she truly helped him enjoy the last few years of his life.  He was also preceded in death by a brother, William Burnell Wheeler.  Michael Dean, as he was lovingly called by all who knew him, was a great man, a family man. He was a born and bred country boy. He enjoyed the simple things in life; spending time with his family, being outdoors, enjoying a pack of Winston’s and an ice-cold Budweiser after work. Michael Dean was a lover of music. He enjoyed listening to country music, and old southern rock. Michael Dean also enjoyed watching Nascar, Star Trek, and old westerns on TV. He was a hard-working man, who enjoyed working with his hands. Michael Dean was a skilled master carpenter, having learned the trade from his late father. He spent his whole life doing what he loved. He worked until his death at Wheeler Construction, a company that his late father, Vernon Wheeler, founded. Sadly, Michael Dean never got to fulfill his lifelong dream of swimming with the whales in Alaska. Michael Dean was an awesome father. Daddy, your huge smile, goofy grin, contagious laugh, and warm, tight hugs will remain with your children and grandchildren forever. We love you. 

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 6 p.m. at Little’s Funeral Home, Smithfield. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.