Franklin Clyde Wheeler

Franklin (Frank) Clyde Wheeler, 84, of Wichita, KS, passed away on September 23, 2025 in his home under hospice care for lung cancer. He was born on April 11, 1941 in Harrison, Arkansas to William “Harley” and Tessie Wheeler.

Frank is survived by his wife, Wanda, and brother, JC, along with his children, Cody and Shanda (Benjamin), and grandchildren, Liam and Olivia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Tessie, and brothers, David and John.

Frank could be found behind a steering wheel at practically all times. He drove buses for Greyhound, followed by working as a salesman for Wonder Bread for more than 30 years, and also installed satellite systems for rural Kansas and Oklahoma. He was known for following through on his word and every "handshake contract", accepting produce or farm goods as part payment for his satellite installation business, dropping everything to help his adult children (or a niece/nephew) move apartments/homes, and, in his children's younger years, driving to provide a unique family vacation experience, no matter how far- including Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone National Park.

Outside of work, Frank enjoyed sharing in his children's and grandchildren's achievements, watching K-State football, and providing home and car maintenance advice. Some family stories, such as him driving the family car while receiving the actual directions "It's just a hop, skip, and a jump down that road", to a family member's home in Arkansas, will not soon be forgotten.

A private Celebration of Life was held by his immediate family following his cremation. Frank's ashes will be interred at Arlington Cemetery at a later date, based on pending application. Frank served in the Air Force National Guard and was called to a year of active Air Force duty in 1968 in South Korea during the Vietnam War.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you encourage your loved ones to stop smoking (or vaping). Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, or the Patient Advocate Foundation, in Frank's honor.

American Cancer Society: https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=pcamhero&lang=en 
Patient Advocate Foundation: https://www.patientadvocate.org/get-involved/donate/

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