Gerald A. Wheeler

Gerald Allen Wheeler, age 77, of Litchfield, died on Monday, April 2, 2018 at St. Cloud Hospital. A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 9, 2018 at 4:00 PM at The Augustana Chapel located at 203 N. Armstrong Ave. in Litchfield, MN. Visitation will be immediately preceding the service beginning at 3:00 PM. Military Honors will be provided by the Litchfield Honor Guard. Gerald Allen Wheeler, the son of Donald and Lucille (Madden) Wheeler was born April 27, 1940 in Litchfield, MN. He graduated from Litchfield High School. He earned his Doctorate Degree in Botany at St. Cloud State University. He then worked for The University of MN, traveling extensively all over the world in his capacity as a consultant in the Botany field. To his credit, he named hundreds of newly discovered plants. Jerry was very musical and was an accomplished drummer. At one point in his life, he competed against over 2000 other contestants and was chosen to perform on The Lawrence Welk Show. He played in many bands during his lifetime. Jerry also performed beautifully on the piano. Jerry was a pilot and loved to fly! He dreamed of getting into the air again! Jerry served in the Air National Guard from 1959 to 1966. He was proud of his service to his country. He was often invited into the Officers’ Club to perform on his drums. Jerry was very fond of his pets over the years, being survived by his last dog “Freeway”. Jerry is survived by relatives and many close friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and by a sister, Yvonne (Wheeler) Benson.