(Operated Wheeler’s Construction)
FAYETTE— Buddy Dewayne “Bud” Wheeler, age 94, of Fayette, died Wednesday morning, April 8, 2026, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon.
He was born on March 25, 1932, in Hillsdale, the third of five sons of the late Lloyd and Mildred (Terry) Wheeler. Bud worked for several area farmers in his early life.
He married the former Gertrude Marie Gigax on November 17, 1951, in Archbold, where they made their home for a year before settling on Maple Street in Fayette in 1952.
Soon after Bud enlisted as a member of the United States Army and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Together, Bud and Gert raised a family of four children and celebrated over 67 years of memories prior to her passing on April 6, 2019.
Upon return to civilian life, Bud worked for Bert Leininger in home building and eventually went out on his own, operating Wheeler’s Construction until his retirement.
An avid outdoorsman, Bud took numerous trips to Fletcher’s Pond and northern Michigan where he enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping. He was a proud member of the Fayette American Legion John Dale Post 143.
Surviving are four children, Kathy Fruchey of Fayette, Stanley Wheeler of Bryan, OH, John (Kim) Wheeler of West Unity, OH, and David (Ann) Wheeler of Fayette. Also surviving are eleven grandchildren, Steven, Beth, Kyla, Paige, Kyle, Nicki, Abby, Jenna, Hanna, Collin, and Jessie; fourteen great-grandchildren; and a great-great granddaughter.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gertrude; brothers, Robert, Max, Larry and Tommy “Ronnie” Wheeler; and son-in-law, Roger Fruchey.
Private graveside services will take place at the Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette with Rev. Dr. Samuel Wickard officiating. Military Honors will be performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions in honor of Bud may be considered to the American Legion John Dale Post 143 or Fayette Volunteer Fire Association. Friends can express sympathies to the family online by visiting the tribute wall at www.marryfh.com. Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.