Ronald K. Wheeler, 71, of Jacksonville, Florida, and formerly of Defiance, passed away on  Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville.

He was born on May 12, 1945 to Keith and Frances (Wells) Wheeler in Defiance. On July 18, 1981 he married Nancy (Hayward) Wheeler, who resides in Florida.

Ron was a former member of First Presbyterian Church in Defiance and an active member of Lakewood Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville FL. He worked for CSX Transportation as a Customer Service Representative for 48 years.  Ron enjoyed exploring the outdoors, bird watching, and fishing.

Ron is survived by his loving spouse of  35 years, Nancy Wheeler of Jacksonville, FL, son Allan (Tracy) Deetz, and daughter-in-law Kristi Deetz 5 grandchildren Alec, Tyler and Travis Deetz, Kenneth and Elizabeth Deetz; brother, Tom Wheeler of Defiance, and sister, Susan (Mike) Price of Defiance.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Keith Wheeler and son Brad Deetz.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 pm on Sunday, August 21, 2016 at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance where funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday,  August 22, 2016.  Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to The Audubon Society. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.