William John Wheeler

William John Wheeler, (88), went home to the Lord on July 24, 2026, in Carmel, Indiana.

Mr. Wheeler (Bill) began his life's journey on May 2, 1938, in his beloved hometown of Tucson, Arizona. He was a proud 1960 graduate of the University of Arizona where he earned of Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy. He later served as a charter member of the College of Pharmacy Advisory Board.

Bill made lifelong friends as a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and remained active in the brotherhood decades after graduation. In 2024, "Brother Bill" was inducted into the University's FIGI Hall of Fame for his lifetime of service and support.

Bill proudly served in the United States Air Force at Clinton-Sherman AFB in Oklahoma, where he met his wife of 63 years, Patricia Anne O' Brien.

After his military service, Bill set his sights on the business world. He went to work for Eli Lilly & Company in Tucson. While working and raising a family, he earned an MBA from Arizona State University in 1971. Armed with expertise in pharmacy and business, he continued with Lilly for 33. years traveling around the country with his family. Bill retired from Lilly in 1997, capping a long and successful career.

Bill was an avid golfer, a giver of sage advice, a car enthusiast, and a devout Roman Catholic. His love and generosity knew no bounds. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, sons William John Wheeler, Jr. (Regina), and Timothy Terence Wheeler. Also surviving him; is his sister, Ellen Wheeler Nix (David), grandsons, Matthew Ryan and Patrick James Wheeler. Along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Oswin K. Wheeler, mother Katherine Ford Wheeler, his brother Terence Wheeler and his niece Kathleen Wheeler Ortega.

Bill also will be remembered for his trademark whistle and his expertise making delicious milkshakes for his grandsons. His memory will be a blessing to all who loved and cared about him.

The family is planning a private funeral Mass in the coming weeks.