Huber Wheeler 04/15/2019

Huber Wheeler, age 94, of River Falls Township died on Monday, April 15, 2019, at Comforts of Home in River Falls. He was born June 4, 1924, in Oberlin Ohio, to Clyde and Iona Wheeler. He was raised in a family of beekeepers, and outdoor enthusiasts; activities he’d stay involved with all his life.  Huber took a break from school to serve his country in the U.S. Navy from June 1, 1943, until his honorable discharge on November 1st, 1946. He served as an electrician’s mate aboard the submarine U.S.S. Drum in the Pacific Theater during WWII. After the war, Huber finished college and married Vera Petty on November 1, 1950. He worked several years for the Ohio Conservation Department, then moved to Madison, Wisconsin to work for the Wisconsin Conservation Department which would become the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. During his time there he worked in the Water Regulations Division which greatly benefited the trout streams of our state during that time period. During their time in Madison, Huber and Vera raised two sons; John and Gregg and stayed very active in support of all their activities. Huber retired from the state in 1974, then he and Vera moved to River Falls to become full time beekeepers. He was active for many years with the Pierce County Beekeepers Club and held office in the Wisconsin Honey Producers Association. Huber enjoyed mentoring younger beekeepers, visiting with neighbors, and viewing wildlife at the family farm. He and Vera took a number of trips with friends in their later years. Huber is survived by his two sons, John (Claire) of Bellingham, WA, Gregg (Joan) of Eau Claire, WI; grandchildren, Caleb Wheeler and Emmaline Hoyt; along with many relatives, nieces and nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Vera; and sister, Wilda (Charles) Collier. A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 East Division Street, River Falls, WI 54022) with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.