Ronald “Ron” Wheeler
November 7, 1936 – December 20, 2023
With heart felt sadness we announce, Ronald “Ron” Earl Wheeler, also known as Doc, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023, at the age of 87 in Vacaville, California. Ron was born on November 7, 1936, in San Mateo, California. He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who had a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Ron’s career as an Entomologist spanned several decades. He dedicated 35 years to Chevron Chemical Company in Richmond, California, before transitioning to Monsanto Company, which acquired Ortho. Ron then ran and oversaw their field research station in Valley Center, California. Later, he joined Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, which purchased Ortho and the research station. Ron’s expertise in entomology also led him to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Contra Costa County Mosquito Abatement District for many years.
In his personal life, Ron found joy in fishing, bird watching, gardening, marksmanship, hunting, camping, and cooking. In 1976, Ron was the Master Mason of Masonic Lodge No. 41 in Martinez, California. Since moving to Valley Center, California in 1993, he actively participated in the Valley Center Optimist International Club, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Escondido and the Dos Valles Garden Club, where he shared his passion for nature, cooking and community. Ron enjoyed sharing his extensive knowledge of insects and his specimen collections with local students and volunteered at Home Depot’s to educate others on proper usage of insecticides, fungicides and herbicides.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Eleanor, his brother Bryce Wheeler (Wilma), daughter Betty Beall (Tim), sons Ronald “Eric” Wheeler and Kirk Wheeler. He was a guiding light and role model to his grandchildren, Ronnie, Ricky, Austin, Payton, Jayden, Logan and Kylen as well as his cherished great-grandchildren, Evrytt, Brynn, Khloe, Elijah, and Miah. He was preceded in death by his parents Beverly and Brice Wheeler.
The Wheeler family invites loved ones and friends to celebrate Ron’s life at a memorial service March 9, 2024, 9:00 am, at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Escondido, California. A Private family service will follow for interment at the Valley Center Cemetery, California.
Ron Wheeler will be remembered for his dedication to his profession, love for the outdoors, and his commitment to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
