Perry Lee Wheeler, 78, a proud veteran, devoted family man, and steadfast servant to his community, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at his home in Pearl, Illinois.
Born on December 3, 1946, in Pearl, Perry was the son of V.F. "Bud" Wheeler and Nola M. (Sickmeier) Wheeler. Following the death of his father when Perry was just eight years old, he was lovingly raised by his mother and her longtime companion, Russell Ridenhour, whose presence shaped much of Perry’s upbringing.
A graduate of Pearl High School, Perry went on to further his education at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey before proudly serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He enlisted on December 1, 1966, and was honorably discharged on November 24, 1967. Like many of his fellow soldiers, Perry quietly carried the weight of a war that often went unrecognized at home. But in 2017, he experienced a deeply meaningful moment when he participated in the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., finally receiving the hero’s welcome he, and so many others, deserved.
Following his military service, Perry built a long and respected career as a Pipefitter and Welder with Shell Oil Refinery in Wood River, Illinois, where he was employed for over 30 years. During that time, he raised his family in Wood River and, in 1993, he and his wife, Rosie, returned to his hometown roots by building their home in rural Pearl, a place where countless memories were made together.
Perry married Rosie Elease (Anderson) on October 4, 1980, in Wood River. With their marriage came not only love, but the blending of their families. To Perry and Rosie, there were no “steps”, only family. Together, they raised their children, celebrated milestones, and weathered life’s hardships with faith, love, and resilience. Rosie preceded him in death on February 3, 2010, and not a day passed that she wasn’t in his heart.
Perry’s life was built around his faith, his family, his deep commitment to helping others, and his unwavering service to veterans. He never met a stranger and could spark a genuine, heartfelt conversation with just about anyone. A tireless worker and a true giver, Perry was a pillar at the Kampsville American Legion Post #1083, where he dedicated over two decades of service.
For 22 years, he served as the Legion’s Finance Officer, leader of the Honor Guard, flag folder and presenter, and the chief cook- especially on the beloved Queen of Hearts nights. He was well-known for his legendary cole slaw and Buffalo fish sandwiches, and he kept the club room running smoothly for years after his retirement. Quite simply, Perry gave everything he had to the Legion. It became his second home, and his presence there will be deeply missed.
Surviving are his children, Stacey Ruyle of Jerseyville, Tammy (Brian) Nicholson of Alton, Angie Bechel of Alton, Steven (Rachael) Wheeler of St. Peters, Missouri, and Scott (Lynne) Wheeler of Jeffersonville, Indiana; eight grandchildren, Jenna Cornelius, Becca Ruyle, Britni Estes, Brandi Portwood, Taylor Bechel, Samara Wheeler, Garrett Wheeler, and Wyatt Wheeler; and seven great-grandchildren, Ryleigh, Avery, Rhett, Samantha, Bentlee, Andrew, Eli, and another great-grandchild expected in August. He is also survived by his brother, Martin Wheeler of Alton.
In addition to his parents and his wife, Perry was preceded in death by his brother, Warren Wheeler; his son-in-law, Steve Ruyle; and his grandson-in-law, Brian Cornelius.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, June 30, 2025, at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Borlin Cemetery in rural Carrollton, with full military honors presented by the Tri-County Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Kampsville American Legion Post #1083, an organization that meant the world to Perry and where his legacy will long be remembered.
The family invites you to share memories and stories at www.crawfordfunerals.com, ensuring that Perry’s legacy of service, kindness, and love continues to be remembered.
