Jonathan Wheeler

Jonathan “Jon” David Wheeler (DOB April 8, 1968) passed from this life into the presence of Jesus on the evening of May 13, 2025 at the age of 57 following a sudden onset episode. Jon was the son of Arlon & Betty Wheeler who both preceded him in death. He was the youngest of seven children, the older being Steve (Sandy), Doug (who has also gone on to heaven), Beckie (Del), Ken (Cathy), Dan (Mindy) and Ruthanne (Chad). In childhood he was always trying to keep up with his brothers while being mothered by his sisters. He loved his siblings very much and valued his relationships with each of them and their families. Raised in a pastor’s home, salaries were often modest but their parents did what was needed to provide, God was faithful and love was always present.

On March 14, 1992 he married Elaine McIntosh, whom he loved dearly. Two weeks prior to that date was leap day and he tried to convince Elaine to choose that date for their wedding, teasingly saying they would only have to celebrate their anniversary every four years. Elaine won, that time. He became the son Elaine’s parents, Roy and Betty, never had and he served them well in all that came with their senior years.

One of the greatest joys of Jon’s life was fathering his two boys, Ryan and Dillon. He loved them dearly and enjoyed and supported all their endeavors from Boy Scouts, band and choir to multiple levels of theatre involvement. He remained proud of them to his dying day.

Jon loved Jesus and proved his love by the way he served people: his family, friends, his church, and any stranger who crossed his path. No one was outside his circle of care. God blessed those in Jon’s life by giving him the gift of service and he was eager to use that gift to bless anyone in need.

Since June of 1989 Jon served as an employee of the Meijer on Westnedge and worked in the meat department the entire length of his employment. Many customers knew him by name and will miss his helpful presence. For nearly 36 years Jon worked hard and gave all of his efforts to serve his employer well. He also served at his church, Lighthouse Community, as custodian and building supervisor for over 10 years. He considered it a privilege to serve his Lord and his church family by caring for the building and serving the staff and people of Lighthouse. There was nothing too menial, dirty or physically taxing that he would avoid if it would benefit the ministry of his church. There were many early mornings and late nights spent preparing for the next worship service or event. He was committed to his role of ensuring that everything and everyone was well cared for. Jon’s investment at Lighthouse went miles beyond his paid position. His welcoming presence came naturally and he shared it openly and with joy at every opportunity.

Elaine introduced Jon to Winding Creek Camp early in their relationship and he came to love it as she did. Memories made there with family and friends have been some of the sweetest. He also loved serving there and was a member of the current Camp Board. True to his passion for improving all things, he helped to build a larger cottage for his young family when they outgrew the small cottage of Elaine’s childhood. There were many vacations spent working at the campground, either for Elaine at the cottage or helping around the grounds in any way that he could.

If you were in Jon’s circle you have experienced a stream of funny YouTube videos, butt dials, his love of early Christian rock music, appreciation of flamingos, phone calls at any hour of the day or night, a constant barrage of out-of-the-box ideas, love of sweets and insane loyalty. These and so many other qualities were part of what made Jon Wheeler the man we love and value.

A celebration of life service honoring Jon’s love of life and quirky spirit will be held at Lighthouse Community Church, 4321 S. 11th Street, Kalamazoo on Thursday, May 22. Visitation with family at 2pm and memorial service at 2:30pm. A luncheon will follow. Memorial gifts may be made to Winding Creek Camp.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Jon's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Wheeler family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600.