Bryan Keith Wheeler

Bryan Keith Wheeler, a Biological Science Lab Technician for the USDA, and a resident of Ankeny, passed away Monday, August 7th at the age of 46 after a brave battle with cancer.

Bryan is survived by his wife, Theresa; stepsons, Tyler and Jakob Whiteaker; his parents, Randy (Jill) Wheeler of Ankeny, and Pam Wheeler of Bemidji, MN; sisters, Brandy (Mark) Larson of Bemidji, MN and Brooke Swartz of Grimes; his grandmother, Maxine Wheeler of Lorimor; aunt, Debbie (Rick) Gripp of Creston; uncles, Keith (Julie) Wheeler of Winterset, Troy (Jenny) Wheeler of Lorimor; and a host of many cousins. Bryan was the loving, attentive uncle to his niece, Noni Larson and nephews, Aidan Larson, Liam Larson, and Skyler and Brady Swartz.

Bryan was born in Ames, Iowa on May 20, 1977, to Randy and Pam Wheeler, and grew up in Winterset, Iowa. He graduated from Iowa State University in Ames with a degree in animal sciences, where he was a member of the Pike Fraternity. He worked in a career with the USDA where he started as a student and had over 20 years of service. His work granted him many accomplishments including the training of incoming students. He had a true love for his job and co-workers.

In January 2015, he met the love of his life, Theresa. They married in May 2018. They shared a love and friendship that was obvious to everyone. Their bond was a once in a lifetime experience. They handled this journey together with courage and loving care. Bryan provided love and support to his two stepsons, Tyler and Jakob.

Bryan knew no strangers and was loved by all. His friends were family to him and were extremely supportive to him, his wife and family during his illness. He loved to fish as well as hunt with his rowdy, beloved hunting shack buddies, father, uncles and cousins. He loved going on late night vet calls with his dad Randy even as a little guy. Farming and being in the fields with his father, granddad and uncles was the place he was meant to be. He loved traveling to Bemidji, MN to spend time with his mother and sister. His family’s Century Farm brought so much joy to his life. He was a lifetime fan of the Iowa State Cyclones and the Chicago Cubs. Bryan will be mourned by his wife, stepsons, his large family and friends. His smile and quick-witted jokes will be forever missed.

Bryan was preceded in death by his granddad, Lee (Junior) Wheeler and grandparents Marshall and Pauline Reynolds.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, August 13, 2023 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel. Celebration of life will take place at 10:30 a.m., Monday, August 14, 2023 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel with pastor Terry Pauley officiating. Burial will be held at a later date in the Moon Cemetery. Flowers and memorial contributions may be directed to his wife and family for a future designation. The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses of McFarland Oncology as well as Mary Greeley Hospital staff and EveryStep Hospice. Their nurses and staff were a blessing during this difficult time.