Putnam: Gary A. Wheeler, Sr., 70, passed away on Saturday, April 27th, in his home, after a long illness. Gary was predeceased by his daughter Jody L. Wheeler in 2022.

He leaves his son, Gary A. Wheeler Jr. of Uxbridge; two daughters, Kelly M. Wheeler Putnam, CT and Tracy A. Cournoyer and her husband Daniel of Brimfield; his two brothers, Lawrence Wheeler of Leicester and David Wheeler of Clinton; twelve grandchildren and one great grandchild. He was born in Clinton, MA the son of the late Robert and Jacquiline (Cadoret) Wheeler.

Gary graduated from Clinton High School and went on to serve 5 years in the Navy, where he was stationed on USS Trenton (LPD-14). He was honorably discharged and awarded a National Defense Service Medal.

Upon raising his 4 children, Gary moved to Southbridge MA, where he enjoyed long walks with his best friend, Buddy the dog. Gary loved spending his time looking through old classic car magazines, and knew everything about each of them, while listening to the Beatles and spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed having his grandchildren around, as he emphasized that daily.

Gary was a person with great honor and looked at life in the most optimistic way. He enjoyed making new friends anywhere he went, and telling all of the crazy stories he had encountered throughout the years. Gary was the comedian of the family, often enjoying making others smile and laugh. He passed this trait down to generations of his family members. Anyone that knew Gary, knew that he was the most genuine and outspoken person they have ever met. Everyone looked up to him and enjoyed every moment in his presence. He will be truly missed by so many.

A funeral services for Gary will be held on Wednesday, May 1st, at 11:00am in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  A calling hour in the funeral home will be held Wednesday, May 1st, from 10:00am to 11:00am prior to the service. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Southbridge.