Robert Lewis Wheeler

Mr. Robert Lewis Wheeler was born in Houston, Texas on August 15, 1937 and went to be with the Lord on January 31, 2024. Bob was a christian, father, husband, educator, neighbor and friend to all. Those who knew him had nothing but love and respect for him.

His wife is Olga Kay Wheeler. Bob raised three children Kaylyn Wheeler Kaelin (deceased), Glenn L. Wheeler, and Susanna Lea Wheeler.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harvey T. Wheeler, Clara Brooking, and his brother Harvey E. Wheeler.

Bob is survived by his children: Glenn Wheeler, Susanna Wheeler, and Son in Law Jessie A. Rodriguez. Grandchildren: Roberto A. Del Valle, Grant L. Wheeler, Joshua Rodriguez, and John A. Rodriguez. Great Grandchildren: Roberto A. Del Valle II “Robbie” and Isabella R. Rodriguez. Nieces: Meredith Wheeler and Jessica Wheeler. Nephew: Geoffrey Wheeler.

Bob spent his life in Houston and was educated in all Houston I.S.D. schools. He attended Travis Elementary, Jane Long Middle School, and San Jacinto High School. He earned his Associates Degree from South Texas Junior College in Downtown Houston. Bachelor's Degree from the University of Houston, and his Master’s Degree in Secondary Education from the University of Houston.

He had many accomplishments in his life, the titles were not important to him only how he led his life and how he treated people.

He participated in his children’s lives. He wasn’t an athlete but he was a great little league announcer. He worked on the Board of Directors of North Houston National Little League. He loved participating in Vacation Church School.

Bob was innovative professional. In 1977, he and his colleagues stood on their desks to teach about the signing of the Constitution. He was also selected to participate in a national school project to improve secondary schools. This was a two year course in Washington D.C. and Los Angeles. He was the President of Houston Area School Administrators in 1990. He considered his most important professional accomplishment was STRIVE! A program designed to bring failing students up to grade level. Students would attend Barbara Jordan High school, participate in regular classes but had teachers and curriculum specifically designed for them. Most of the participating students were very successful.

His christian faith showed in everything he did. He taught all of us to be christians. He taught us prayers and lessons of the church. The student’s welfare and education were of utmost importance. Bob supported his staff in all areas.

He served the Methodist and Presbyterian churches as a supply pastor, church school leader, he served communion, youth counselor, and teacher. As he aged and his health worsened he still loved the church enough to work in it by sending cards to shut ins and speaking to them on the phone.

He gave advice if someone asked for it. He was a loving and kind gentleman.

Julie Shannon, an Assistant Principal at Barbara Jordan, at his retirement in 1994 wrote the following:

“I know him well and the only thing that was larger than his girth is the size of his great big heart—the true measure of a man’s worth! He cared about each of us but never did he smother, and the only time we used his power, was simply to help another. We learned a lot, we laughed a lot, and sometimes we even cried and in the process we improved kid’s lives—or at least we always tried.”

Our family only hopes that we can touch one person in the same way you have touched so many in everything you have done. We love you Kay, Glenn, and Susanna.

A visitation for Robert will be held Sunday, February 11, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039. A funeral services will occur Monday, February 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM at The Foundry Methodist Church, 8350 Jones Rd, Houston, TX 77065. A burial committal will occur Monday, February 12, 2024 at Brookside Memorial Park, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039.