Paul Eugene Wheeler: Navy veteran, arborist and devoted “Papa” remembered for his steady presence

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Paul Eugene Wheeler
October 18, 1952 – June 18, 2026

Paul Eugene Wheeler (Papa), 73, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2026, after a courageous five-year battle with ILD. He was born on October 18, 1952, in Myers Flat, California. Paul graduated from Fortuna Union High School in 1970 and married his high school sweetheart, Donna Kletzien, in 1975. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and lasting memories. Paul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose warmth, dedication, and deep love for his family will be missed beyond measure.

Paul was a veteran during the Vietnam War and proudly served four years in the United States Navy, a reflection of the strength, commitment, and sense of duty he carried throughout his life. After returning home from military service, he dedicated the next 30 years to the tree service industry and became an Arborist. He later concluded his career after 13 years as the Facilities Director at Bear River Casino, where he was respected for his hard work, dependability, and commitment to doing things right.

sports. In his younger years, he enjoyed anything that kept him active and outside. More than anything, Paul cherished time with his family. Some of his greatest joys came from watching his children and grandchildren participate and excel in sports. Whether in the stands or on the sidelines, he was always their number one fan, proud to cheer them on every chance he had.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Donna Wheeler; his children and their spouses, Jonathan and Khammy Wheeler, Becky Wheeler and Cory Woolley; his siblings, Nora Leaton Smith, and Donna (George) Warren; his brothers-in-law, John Doyle, David Kletzien, and Michael Kletzien, his sister-in-law Ginger Baxley Wheeler; his grandchildren, Joe Rocha, Christian Chhun, Ashley Rocha, Kalie McCarthy, Ashlynn Wheeler, and Jonah Wheeler; John and Teresa McGinnis, Conrad and Rhiannon Wood, and Brent Pritchard; and numerous nieces and nephews. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, John and Laura Wheeler; his siblings, William “Bill” Wheeler, Fay Short, Patricia Doyle, and Gary Wheeler; and brother-in-law Harvey Leaton.

Paul will be remembered for his steady presence, his hard work, his love of the outdoors, and the pride he took in his family. His greatest legacy is the love he gave so freely and the memories he leaves behind with those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lakeside Colonial Chapel, Marysville, CA. A special thank you to Adventist Health Home Care and Hospice for their exceptional care.