Northborough – Joseph E. Wheeler, 90, passed away at UMass-Memorial’s University Campus on April 15, 2024.
Joe was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, one of two sons to George and Maddaline (Labatina) Wheeler. He attended Brooklyn Boys High School and shortly after graduation, enlisted into the U.S. Army where he served honorably. Upon his return, he met his future wife, Gloria P. (Andrews) Wheeler, while visiting a local ice cream parlor.
For most all of his career, Joe worked in heavy construction, first as a laborer then working his way into supervisory positions.
In 1978 he relocated his family to their current home in Northborough and began work with Perini Construction. Joe was proud to be involved with large projects such as the NYC Subway System, building of McCarran Airport, reconstruction of the Southborough Aqueduct, to name a few. He was just as proud, and perhaps had more fun, driving a Mr. Softee ice cream truck through local neighborhoods.
Joe enjoyed spending time with his family. He enjoyed bowling and golfing. He and his son Kevin cherished the many rounds of golf together. Joe, with his skills in various types of construction, found enjoyment as he dabbled in home repairs and renovations. He also found enjoyment in watching of his nephew Darren play baseball and art drawing and painting with his niece Chalane.
In addition to his beloved wife Gloria, Joe is survived by his son, Kevin Wheeler of Shrewsbury; his daughter – who he always referred to as the “apple of his eye” Donna Miller and her husband Joseph of Plainfield, Indiana; his nephew Darren Miller, also of Plainfield, Indiana and his niece, Chalane Miller of Lemon Grove, California. He was preceded in death by his brother Gregory Wheeler.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11AM on Monday, April 22nd, at St. Rose of Lima Parish, 244 W. Main Street, Northborough. Burial will be in Howard Street Cemetery, Northborough. There are no calling hours.
Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, www.HaysFuneralHome.com.
