In Memory of Robert E. Wheeler

Obituary

Robert E. Wheeler, age 96, a resident of New Hartford, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 25, 2026

He was born in Utica, NY, to Keith A. and Cecelia Wheeler.  Robert served in the United States Navy during the Korean War.  He married Geraldine Dunn of Fall River, MA, at St. William’s Church in Fall River, MA, on September 15, 1951.  They shared 67 years of marriage until she passed in December, 2018.

In 1952, he began his career with the General Electric Company and held senior management positions in Utica and Johnson City, NY. He retired in 1990 after 38 years of service.

Robert is survived by his three children, Keith (Karen) Wheeler of State College, PA, Robert (Margaret) Wheeler of Endicott, NY, and Diane Rothermel of Camillus, NY; five grandchildren, Courtney Wheeler (Pavel Lougovski), Ross Wheeler, Kelsey Wheeler, Emily Wheeler (Aaron Henshaw), Rebecca Wheeler (Richard Tabor); 5 great-grandchildren, Hannah Lougovski, Eli Lougovski, Niko Briceno, Wade Henshaw, Zazie Henshaw; and a sister, Carolyn Baron.  He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Lawrence Rothermel, step-grandson Bryan Rothermel, and grand-daughter-in-law Alexandra Wheeler.

The family wishes to thank the residents and staff of Preswick Glen for many years of friendship and fellowship.

The funeral will be on Monday, June 1, at 10:00 am at St. John the Evangelist Church, New Hartford, NY.  Internment will follow immediately at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Utica, NY.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Robert’s name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Community Wellness Partners, New Hartford, NY.

Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams, and Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford, NY.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.