Benjamin Russell Wheeler (Known to some of his classmates as Henry), 73, formerly of Piqua and more recently Troy, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at Upper Valley Medical Center due to complications from COVID.  He was born July 11, 1948 in Piqua, Oh. to the late Robert and Gladyce (Leis) Wheeler.

Ben is survived by his children: Kelly (Brian) Loftus of Westerville, OH, Myron (Angie) Wheeler of Troy, Thomas (Holly) Wheeler of Troy; grandchildren: Drew (Alicia) Wheeler, Darian Wheeler, Jacob, Megan, Alex and Owen Wheeler of Troy; great grandchildren: Lucas and Arya Wheeler; siblings: Dave (Barb) Wheeler of Piqua, Jim (Karen) Wheeler of Piqua and Becky Carter of Covington, OH.

Ben was a 1967 graduate of Piqua Central High School.  He went on to earn his associate's degree in business from Sinclair College.  Ben proudly served as an Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper where he earned the distinction of the ACE Award (The Ace Award is earned by recovering five stolen vehicles with on-the-spot apprehensions in one calendar year). As an entrepreneur, he founded Wheeler's Driving School and the Sunset Car Wash.  Ben also worked security for General Motors in Moraine, OH.

Ben was a member of Piqua Baptist Church where he served as a Sunday School Teacher and Deacon for many years.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor and generosity of spirit.

Services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at Baird Funeral Home in Troy.  Burial will follow in Miami Memorial Park Cemetery.  Family will receive friends from 11:00 am – 1:00 PM on Tuesday, November 9th at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center at Upper Valley Medical Center.  Friends may express condolences to the family through www.bairdfuneralhome.com.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Center at Upper Valley Medical Center
3130 N. County Road 25A, Troy OH 45373