Brian G. Wheeler

Brian G. Wheeler, 60, of Germantown Hills, IL went to his heavenly home on Sunday, January 22, 2023, surrounded by family at his home. Brian had been battling Glioblastoma brain cancer for the past three years. He fought like a true warrior.

He was born on December 28, 1962, in Canton, IL, to Donald and Karen (Latimer) Wheeler. His father, Donald, preceded him in death. He married Melanie Meadows on January 14, 2005, in Key West, Florida. Florida was his second home.

Brian is survived by his wife, Melanie of Germantown Hills; children, Christopher (Erica) Wheeler of Stoughton, WI, Charles Shay of Brookfield, IL, and Sally Shay of Indianapolis, IN; one very special granddude, Nolan Wheeler; mother, Karen Wheeler; siblings, Brad Wheeler, Renee (Kevin) Beebe, Doug (Linnea) Meadows, and Stephanie Kinney; and several nieces and nephews. His wife and family meant the world to him.

Brian graduated from Canton High School and Bradley University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He led a successful career working at Caterpillar for over 34 years. He took pride in his work which included three patents for the company.

For recreation he enjoyed traveling, camping (across the U.S. and at Oak Run), concerts and music, playing his banjo, working outdoors, and spending quality time with family and friends. In previous years, he was an avid runner with the Illinois Valley Striders which includes running several local races and completing the Chicago Marathon. Most of all he simply enjoyed making memories with his best friend and wife, Melanie, being with his children, and lately spending as much time as possible with his grandson, Nolan.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Willow Hill United Methodist Church, 304 East Far Hills Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611, Germantown Hills Fire Department, 313 Prairie Avenue, Germantown Hills, IL 61548, or OSF Hospice, 2265 West Altorfer Drive, Peoria, IL 61615. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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