With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Marvin Harold Wheeler, known to so many as “Coach.”  Harold passed away peacefully October 26, 2026. While our family mourns the loss of a man we love dearly, we also celebrate a life that made a lasting impact on countless people.

Harold was born in Thayer, MO, January 15, 1942.  He was married to Mary “Pat” Wheeler on July 1, 1978.  He was a loving father to Jennifer Lashley, married to Jeremy Lashley, Ashley McBride, married to Keith Messerly, Clay Wheeler, married to Stephanie Wheeler, and was a cherished grandfather to Jancee (married to Jacob), Jake, Brayden, McKenley, Wesley, Chase, Landon, and Kendall and step-grandchildren, Kyler and Kayden, and step-great-grandchildren, Elayna and Adaline.

Coach was a man of strong faith who loved Jesus Christ and trusted God through life’s challenges. His faith was an important part of who he was, and he carried those beliefs into the way he lived, loved, coached, and encouraged others. He understood that life was about more than personal accomplishments; it was about the lives we touch and the difference we make along the way.

To those who knew and loved him, he was also known affectionately as Papa Wheels. He had a personality that people remembered, a sense of humor that created lasting stories, and a presence that could fill a room. His legacy lives on in the laughter, the friendships, the lessons, and the countless memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Dad’s faith is now sight and that his earthly journey has come to an end. We trust in the promises of Jesus Christ and hold on to the hope of eternal life. We imagine him hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Visitation will be held 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, 3540 E. Seminole, in Springfield.  Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 30, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, with Pastor Don Keene officiating.  Burial will follow at Richwood Cemetery, in Christian County, Missouri.

Care has been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home East.