Richard "Dick" S. Wheeler

Richard (Dick) S. Wheeler, 89, a dedicated firefighter and beloved member of the Worcester community, passed away on January 19, 2024, at the Lutheran Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center. He was born in Worcester on April 6, 1934, to the late Helen M. (Smith) and Clifford W. Wheeler.  

Dick was predeceased by his loving wife, Adele T. (Cardwell) Wheeler after 52 years of marriage. He is survived by three children: Judith M. Doremus and her husband Andrew of Worcester, Donna-Marie Grant and her husband Paul of Auburn, and Richard M. Wheeler of Clearwater, FL, three grandchildren: Jessica Katinas and her husband Travis along with their children Grayson and Hudson of Leicester, Dylan Doremus of Worcester and Matthew Card of Auburn; siblings David Wheeler and wife Arlene of Boylston and Donna Euwart and husband Don of South Carolina and many nieces and nephews. 

Dick served in the United States Navy and was very proud of his military service. Following his time in the Navy, he went to work at Wyman Gordan and then joined the City of Worcester Fire Department and retired as a Lieutenant on Engine 11. He dedicated himself to protecting the residents of Worcester and showed great courage and commitment throughout his career.  Dick had the distinguished honor of being a 4th degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus.

Outside of his firefighting duties, Dick had various hobbies and interests. He enjoyed spending time at Hampton Beach with his wife and the many friends they met throughout the years.  He especially loved the Seafood Festivals.  He also enjoyed indulging in delicious meals with his family and friends at local Worcester restaurants.  His other interests included solving crossword puzzles, playing golf, playing cards with his neighbors, and supporting all New England sports teams. However, above all else, Dick cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Dick's life with visitation on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, from 4:00 until 7:00 PM at Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home, 61 Myrtle St, Worcester.  A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, January 25, at 10:30AM at Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant St, Worcester,  Burial will immediately follow in Saint John's Cemetery, 260 Cambridge St, Worcester.

Richard S. Wheeler will be remembered as a dedicated firefighter, a loving family man, and a loyal friend. His presence in the community will be deeply missed, but his impact on others will be fondly remembered for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Dick's name to The Leary Firefighters Foundation at https://learyfirefighters.org/donate or the Worcester Firefighters Memorial Fund at https://www.worcesterma.gov/fire. 

The family would like to invite all to a Celebration of Life at Eller's Restaurant, 190 Main Street, Cherry Valley MA, at 12:30 pm.