Julia Nell Wheeler

Julia (Julie) gained her wings and went to her Heavenly Home peacefully, on February 7, 2023. Julie was a lifelong Grand Rapids native who grew up on the “Westside” and spent her 93 years of life nearby her childhood home– always true to her roots. She attended Grand Rapids Union High School, Grand Rapids JC, and Aquinas College. Her last employment, of 20 years, was with The Department of Housing and Urban Development. She met her husband, Bud (Frank Wheeler), in 1950, and married on February 16, 1952. Together they had 6 children, Cathy (Pete Sexton), Jamie Wheeler (deceased), Jeff Wheeler, Frank (Pam) Wheeler, John (Amanda) Wheeler and Mary Kelley. Julie and Bud were very devout and active members of The Catholic Church, Saints Peter and Paul and Saint Alphonsus parishes. Julie had a busy social life and many friends. She was involved in the local senior center, a book club, charity organizations, and was a member of the National Mahjong League, to name just a few. She traveled many places in her life, from the USA states, the Caribbean, Europe, North Africa, Australia and more. She was preceded in death by her adoring husband, Frank (Bud) Wheeler, and many other loved ones; both friends and family including, Jim and Sue Wheeler, Betty and Harry Cooper, Dick Nawrocki, Ken Wheeler; and always in her thoughts and prayers, her beloved brother, Clare, and her cherished grandson, Frankie Bill; along with her baby son, Jamie Wheeler. Those dearest to her will continue to carry on her legacy and loving spirit. In addition to her children, other family, nieces/ nephews and friends, are her pride and joy, her grandchildren /great grandchildren: Alex and Nicolle; Jenny, Kevin, Ethan, Mady, Anthony, Zachary, Isaac and Abram; Jason, Lindsay, Nya and Grace; Ryan, Sedona and Tristan; Steven, Raven and Ashanti; John, Jessica, Kailea and Lani; Lyric and Canyon; Jacob and Kelsey; and Taylor and Anton. A special mention goes to her sister-in-law/ friend, Judy Nawrocki. Their relationship continues to keep our clans connected. *As a testament to the special relationship to her Godson Joe, we believe her passing over on his birthday affirmed their bond and heartfelt connection. We will remember our Mom/ Aunt/ Grandma/ Grammy/ Grams/ Great Gramma/ In-Law and Friend, as a smart, independent, woman/Matriarch who had endless love for her tribe. She also received great joy from embracing, and spoiling all furry family pets. Her wisdom and outlook were valued by so many that knew her. She was there to share a smile, offer advice, listen, and have some fun. She was well loved, and we all knew the value of having her in our lives. At Julie’s request, she was cremated and will reside in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, next to Bud. A Catholic Mass in celebration of her life will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church, 224 Carrier St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI. Visitation with the family will be held prior to Mass, from 10-11:00 a.m., at the church. This obituary was lovingly created by her children, who will miss her dearly.