John Paul Wheeler

John Paul Wheeler, 79, of Sunrise Beach, MO passed away on Friday, August 11th, at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS. John was born on November 14th, 1943 to John & Katherine (Sharkey) Wheeler in Topeka. In 1961, John graduated from Topeka High School. After High School, John graduated from the Clark School of Business at Washburn University in 1962, where he received his business certificate. In 1966, John married his wife of 54 years, Patricia Smith. Together they had three children.

In 1964, John joined the United States Army National Guard, where he served until 1970. For 47 years, John worked for Columbian National Title Insurance Company, later the company merged with 1st American Title Insurance Corporation. John started as a clerk, and would later retire in 2007 as Vice President and Agency Representative. During his career, John received numerous awards throughout Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma from Land Title Associations. He also served as President of the Kansas Land Title Association. He was also honored to be the on the board of directors for West Lake Chamber of Commerce & had served on numerous boards with the Topeka Board of Realtors.

Alongside his career, John was a member and former president of the Topeka Sunflower Lions Club, and was the Secretary of District 17 AE International Lions Club. John joined the Catholic Church in 1991, and was baptized at Mater Dei Holy Name.

John enjoyed bowling, fishing, golfing, and boating. He will be remembered for his love of music. From 1977 to 1999, John was involved with two bands, Purple Rain & Casual Cadillac. He was the lead singer for both bands, and played numerous instruments including the trumpet, guitar, and the keyboard. A man of many talents, John’s talent went beyond music. He was a skilled woodworker, tile layman, and mechanic, after restoring and repairing many cars for him and his family. John was known for his favorite restoration project, his 1963 Chevy Impala.

Preceding John in passing are his parents, wife Patricia, and one great-grandson, Cael. He is survived by a Brother in Law; Bill Smith of Sunrise Beach, MO; his three children; Diane (Mark) Oelke of Topeka, Donna (Shad) Wells of Meriden, and Becky (Robert) Velasquez of Overland Park, KS. Also surviving John are six grandchildren; Dustin (Clara) Oelke, Katie (Devin Lasley) Hall, Austin (Cassie) Wells, Josh (Jonae) Wells, Kaylee Wells, and Jacob (Kayla) Miller. Eight great-grandchildren also survive; Parker, Matthew, Caiden, Lincoln, Frederick, Brynlee, Isabella, Aiden, Adalyne, and Everett. His rescue dog, Happy, will miss him dearly.

A reading of the rosary will begin at 9:30am on Friday, August, 25th, at Mater Dei Holy Name Catholic Church. Mass will follow at 10am. A Visitation and Celebration of Life will take place in the Parish Hall following mass.  John will be buried at a later date at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Laurie, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Topeka High School Music program.