William Stearns Wheeler

William “Bill” Wheeler 82 of Webberville passed away June 29, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on March 25, 1939, in Ann Arbor, the son of the late Jean and Ethel Wheeler. He married Janice Roehm on July 30, 1966, in Saline, Michigan.  Bill graduated from Manchester High School in 1957 and Michigan State University in 1963 with a degree in Agricultural Education. He received his master's degree in 1968 in Ag Ed.  He taught at Ubly Community Schools from 1963-1966.  He began his 31-year teaching career as an Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor at Webberville Community Schools in 1966 and retired in 1997. He was the recipient of the 2014 Michigan Association Fairs and Exhibitions Heritage Award. In 2016, he was honored with the National Association Agricultural Educators’ Lifetime Achievement Award.  

He was an active member of the Webberville United Methodist Church, serving the church in many capacities including the Crop Walk Co-Coordinator for 40 years.  He was also a member of the Webberville Lion’s Club, Ingham County Farm Bureau, Webberville 4H, Webberville FFA Alumni, Webberville Garden Club, and Webberville Masonic Lodge. He was Webberville’s Citizen of the Year in 1985.  

Bill loved life and people. He could always be found at a school, community, or family event.  He enjoyed collecting antiques and treasures.  He served his community and loved every minute of it exemplifying servant leadership for others to follow.  

He is survived by his wife Janice of 54 years and sons Alan (Jennifer) Wheeler of Adrian and David Wheeler and Christine Cook of Webberville; brothers Theodore (Carol) Wheeler of Grass Lake: Jack (Susan) Wheeler of Howell; his sister Pat (Bob) Johnson of Hendersonville, Tennessee; and grandchildren Alexis and Blain Wheeler of Adrian.  

Visitation will be held on July 2, 2021, at the Webberville United Methodist Church from 2:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. Saturday, July 3 visitation will take place at the Spartan Center at Webberville High School from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m. and a private burial will take place at the Alchin Cemetery.  Pastor Marty Johnston and Retired Pastor Fred Fischer officiating.  

A luncheon will follow the gravesite service with fellowship in the high school cafeteria—all are welcome to gather and share stories and celebrate Bill’s life.   

Contributions can be made in Bill Wheeler’s name to Webberville FFA and The Webberville United Methodist Church.   

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.