Jeffrey M. Wheeler Sr., Sawyer, formerly of Lennox, SD, died Monday, September 14, 2009, in his home.

Jeffrey was born February 19, 1952, in Fargo, ND to Ralph Wheeler and Judy Evink. His early years were spent growing up in Ulen, MN and later in Brandon, SD.

He was united in marriage to LeAnn. This union was blessed with a son, Jeffrey Wheeler Jr.. He lost LeAnn to cancer in 2002.

Jeff worked as a school janitor in Lennox and Chamberlain, SD before moving to Sawyer, ND in 2004, where he gained employment at the school. He continued to work there for the next five years until his death.

Jeff took great pride in his work and enjoyed being around all the school kids and their school activities. He loved listening to old country music and had a special chair he would sit in while listening to music and visiting with friends. He had many dear friends and was a kind and gentle man, always offering his help. Jeff will be deeply missed in the community, the school system and by all of his friends and family.

Surviving family includes: Son, Jeffrey Wheeler Jr., Sioux Falls, SD; Grandchildren, Kendra and Caleb, Watertown, SD; Mother, Judy Evink, Sioux Falls, SD; Father, Ralph Wheeler, Stanley, ND; Brother, Charles Wheeler, Stanley, ND; Sister, Rachael Meyer, Chamberlain, SD, and Half Sisters, Mary and Sarah Wheeler, both of Minot;

Jeffrey was preceded in death by his wife LeAnn.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, September 20, 2009, at 1:30 p.m. at the Sawyer School Auditorium.