Michael Jay "Mike"

Wheeler

WHEELER

Michael Jay “Mike” Wheeler, age 71, of London, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.

Born on October 17, 1955, in Jeffersonville, Indiana, Mike was a son of Lawrence Jay Wheeler and Norma Jean (Bagshaw). Over the years, Mike served as a hard-working truck driver until he was blessed to be a father at which time he transitioned to working in maintenance. Mike worked in both maintenance and served as a former owner of KFC. He was truly known as a jack-of-all-trades who could fix just about anything – so much so that the family motto became, “If Papaw can’t fix it, we’re all screwed.”

Mike was the best husband, father, and Papaw anyone could ever ask for. Known for his infectious energy, quick wit, and fun-loving spirit, he had a sense of humor that could rival any stand-up comedian. Whether he was playing air drums, strumming an air guitar, or enthusiastically singing off-key to his own tune, he knew how to bring joy and laughter into any room.

A self-proclaimed “Hoosier for life,” he was a die-hard fan of Indiana University athletics, but also enjoyed cheering on the Cincinnati Reds and Cincinnati Bengals. His enthusiasm for sports extended to his family where he was always the #1 fan in whatever sports his grandkids played, cheering them on with the most spirit of all. When he wasn’t watching a game or trying his luck at the casino, Mike could often be found out on the water fishing and boating, or standing over a hot grill perfecting his next meal as the family’s ultimate grill master. Mike also had a lifelong love for the game of golf and cherished every opportunity to tee off.

Above all else, Mike loved his family more than life itself. He was a genuinely good man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, hard work, and many good times.

Left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of almost 20 years, Sharon (Pauley) Wheeler; daughters Brittany (Greg) Wheeler and Katie (Dylan) Hemp, stepson Bryan Bonner; grandchildren: Adalynne, Dallas, and Brantley Hemp, Azi Wheeler, and Brenden Bonner; brother Larry (Esther) Wheeler; numerous nieces and nephews; mother of his daughters Amy Strayer; very dear friend and partner in crime: Randy Branstetter.

Mike was preceded in death by his father Lawrence Wheeler, mother Norma Hazel, stepfather Ernie Hazel, and brother Ron Wheeler.

The family invites friends to a Celebration of Mike’s life on Sunday, November 22, 2026, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140.

Condolences for the Wheeler family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.