Ralph W. Wheeler, 87, of Ironton, passed away Friday, June 26, 2009, at the Community Hospice Care Center in Ashland, Ky.
The Ironton native was born Aug.16, 1921, the son of the late Alphonzo and Mollie Waddell Wheeler. He was preceded in death on Jan. 11, 2006, by his wife, Harriett M. Blevins Wheeler, whom he married in 1944.
Mr. Wheeler attended Green Township Schools and was a U.S. Army World War II veteran. Mr. Wheeler retired in 1976 from AK Steel after 30 years. He also owned and operated Wheeler Appliance Repair for many years and was a member of the Franklin Furnace Independent Baptist Church. Mr. Wheeler was also an avid bowler, fisherman and gardener.
In addition to his parents and wife, he is preceded in death by two daughters, Linda Greene Nolan and Elizabeth S. Jones; three brothers, Alfred, James and Russell Wheeler; three sisters, Mary Holman, Mae Otworth and Clara Sprouse and a grandson, Jason Jones.
He is survived by two granddaughters Michelle Allen of Ironton and Brittney McComis of Coal Grove; a grandson, Scott Greene of Ironton and is also survived by seven great grandchildren.
Graveside service will be noon Monday at Haverhill Cemetery with Pastor Dr. Dennis Hankins officiating. Military graveside rites will be performed by VFW Post 8850. Friends may call 10:30- 11:30 a.m. Monday at Hayes-Phillips Funeral Home. To offer condolences to the family, please visit, www.phillipsfuneralhome.net.