It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Duane Hamilton Wheeler, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, who peacefully passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the age of 89, following a lengthy illness.

Duane was born on July 31, 1935, in Friend, Nebraska, to the late Richard B. Wheeler and the late Ethel L. Wheeler. After graduating from Crete High School, Duane enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country with distinction for over two decades. Throughout his military career, Duane completed tours in Korea, Vietnam and Germany, earning numerous commendations and awards for his dedicated service. He retired as a CW3 from Ft. Bliss, Texas on May 31, 1975. Among his many honors, Duane received four Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster (OLC), the Vietnam Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal. His other notable awards included the Meritorious Unit Commendation with OLC, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with three OLC, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the RVN Campaign Medal with 60 Device, and the Meritorious Service Medal (1st OLC), among many other recognitions. Duane's service was a testament to his dedication, discipline, and loyalty to his country and his fellow soldiers.

While stationed in Germany, Duane met Joquettia L. Harrell who would become his loving wife. Together they shared 66 years of marriage.

Beyond his military career, Duane was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, fishing, and engaging in political discourse. He was known for his strong opinions and his unwavering commitment to his beliefs.

Duane was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Ethel Wheeler, as well as his beloved children, Valerie A. Small (Wheeler) and Timothy A. Wheeler.

He is survived by his wife, Joquettia L. Wheeler of Kerrville, TX; his daughter Teresa L. Shaw (Wheeler) and her husband John S. Shaw of Dracut, MA; his brother David Wheeler and his wife Penny Wheeler of Visalia, CA; his granddaughters Jennifer Maldonado of Houston, TX, and her children, Valerie Hattar, David Liceaga, and Francheska Liceaga; and Ashley Catalano and her husband Anthony Catalano Jr. of Dracut, MA, along with their children, Autumn Ferrell-Shaw and Adeline Catalano; Cassandra Shaw and her son Brady Huntress as well as his great-great-grandchildren, Hope, Joel, and Faith. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and friends.

Duane will be laid to rest with full military honors on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Duane's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or K9s for Warriors, both of which reflect Duane's commitment to service and helping others.

Duane's legacy of love, patriotism, and service will live on through his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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