Daniel Payne Wheeler Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at the age of 72. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that he had touched in some way throughout his life. He was the beloved husband of the late Dorothy Foster Wheeler. Loving father of Deborah Wheeler Mertz (Mike), Danette Wheeler (Elton) and Dana Wheeler (Glenn). Son of the late Daniel P. Wheeler Sr. and Thelma Hourbeigt Wheeler. Brother of Thelma Wheeler Cathalougne. Proud grandfather of Justin Zulli, Corey Zulli (Kayla), Dustin Frederic (Chrissy), Garrett Frederic and Jeremy Roig. Great grandfather of Zoey Zulli, Mia Zulli and Amelia Roig. Uncle and God father of Tracy Cathalougne. He is also survived and fondly remembered by many cousins, relatives, dear friends and especially his pets, Taz, Loki and his grand-doggie Sadie.
Daniel was born in New Orleans, LA and was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish where he enjoyed a long career as a former Deputy with the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office and a Foreman with Avondale Shipyard. He was also an honored member of the Andrew Jackson Masonic Lodge No. 428. Although Daniel’s illness made him appear frail, he possessed strength, perseverance, and an ability to overcome incredible odds and physical challenges. With his courage, he led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. He was our pillar of strength and will be forever remembered as a loving and loyal husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and a friend of many, who loved hunting with his friends and treasured his family.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Wednesday, September 6, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral Mass beginning at 1:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest with his beloved wife in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.
