Shirley Joyce Wheeler

Shirley Joyce Wheeler, age 94, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, in Traverse City, Michigan. She was born on July 30, 1931, in Lapeer, Michigan, to Roy William Laser and Dorothy Louise (Rosembaum) Laser. On November 28, 1950, Shirley married the love of her life, Harold J. Wheeler, in Rodney, Michigan. Together they built a life rooted in love, resilience, and dedication to family. During Harold’s service in the United States Air Force, Shirley embraced the many moves that came with military life, creating a warm and steady home wherever they went. They settled in Traverse City from 1969 to 1988, later residing in Punta Gorda, Florida from 1988 to 2001, before returning to Traverse City, where she remained for the rest of her life. Shirley was a devoted member of the Grawn United Methodist Church. She found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures—gardening, sewing, fishing, and spending time on her computer. She also had a love for music and creativity, often playing her organ, singing, and writing. Her gentle spirit, creativity, and nurturing nature touched all who knew her. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Carol Wheeler, Kirk (Lynda) Wheeler, and Gene Wheeler. She was a proud grandmother to Tonya (Phillip) Arnold, Diana (Marc) Glauch, Naomi Wheeler, Heidi (James) Hartrich, Benjamin Wheeler, Lindsey Wheeler, and Dustin Wheeler. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Tyler, Noah, and Logan Glauch; Kian and Cora Heise; Hunter and Emma Arnold; Addison Ware; and Everett Hartrich; and her great-great granddaughter Hailee Glauch. Shirley is also survived by her siblings, Nancy (Larry) Karcher and Gordon Laser. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold J. Wheeler; her parents; and her siblings, Venita Wheeler, Beverly Brack, and Kenneth Laser. Shirley will be remembered for her steadfast love for her family, her quiet strength, and the kindness she extended to everyone she met. Her life was a testament to devotion, creativity, and grace. Memorial contributions may be made in Shirley’s honor to Grawn United Methodist Church. A life so beautifully lived leaves a legacy of love that will continue to grow in the hearts of all who knew her. Memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 10:00 AM until the time of the Memorial Service at 11:00 AM at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Shirley Joyce Wheeler

July 30, 1931 - April 3, 2026