Anthony Paul Wheeler

Mr. Anthony Paul "Tony" Wheeler, age 84, of Bloomington, Illinois passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at Carle Bromenn Medical Center in Normal. He was born October 8, 1939 to Warren and Vera (Capodice) Wheeler.

Tony was born and raised in Bloomington, IL and attended Trinity High School. He was a member of the graduating class of 1957. He pursued higher education at Southern Illinois University of Carbondale where he earned a Bachelor Degree in Communications Engineering. This prepared him for his lifelong career as an Engineer with GTE (General Telephone & Electronics Corporation). He retired in 1994.

On August 2, 1985 Tony married the love of his life, Jaime L Foley. They were happily married for nearly 40 years. Jaime survives.

Tony was a bright and hardworking man who had some unique hobbies. He was a licensed HAM radio operator for over 30 years, proudly claiming his call sign "K9BBA." You could often find him listening to his scanner. He was also a lifelong member of the Model Airplane Club in Covell, IL. One of his greatest passions however, was his love of wildlife animals. He and his dedicated wife compassionately served as wildlife rehabilitators for the state of Illinois for over 20 years. Throughout those years, it was not uncommon that Tony would bring home a wounded baby fox, raccoon, duck, or hawk and lovingly nurse it back to health.

Surviving are his wife, Jaime Wheeler of Bloomington, IL; children: Michael (Rebecca) Wheeler, of Colorado, Cindy Wheeler (Andy Davis) of Chicago, IL, Chris Wheeler of Bloomington, IL; seven grandchildren; siblings: Marion Smith of Normal, Nancy (John Ed) Lanier of Bloomington, Steve (Diana) Wheeler of Normal; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tony is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Gloria Case, brother-in-law Robert Case, and brother-in-law Dr. Jim Smith.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date. Memorial contributions in Tony's honor may be made to Wish Bone Canine Rescue of Normal. East Lawn Funeral Home 1102 Airport Rd Bloomington, IL 61704 has been entrusted with arrangements for Mr. Anthony Wheeler. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.eastlawnmemorial.com