Mariruth Wheels

Mariruth Irene “Speedy” Wheels was born the daughter of Robert “Preach” and Martha Williams Wheels on October 23, 1950 and departed this life on Tuesday, April 6, 2021, at the age of 70.

Mari was the youngest of eight children. She graduated from Tech High School in 1968, and AIB in 1981 with an AA degree in bookkeeping and computer programing. Mari retired after 30 years from the federal government as a computer specialist. She was active in Eastern Star, a 26 year member of the Hawkeye Elks, and served as Daughter Ruler, Vice Daughter Ruler, Recording Secretary, and Trustee of Rose Temple #33. Rose Council of Iowa, she once served as Loyal Daughter Ruler, Arretta Butler Past Grand Daughter Ruler, and she previously served as Financial Secretary. She belonged to the Department of Fire and Safety.

Mari was a member since birth and active in Bethel AME Church, where she served on the usher board. Her hobbies included having a good time, traveling, watching westerns and Mayberry RFD. She loved her large family gatherings. Mari enjoyed reading, shopping, dancing, going to concerts, and music of all kinds. She was a die-hard Broncos fan.

She is survived by her son, Sean Wheels; her granddaughter, Shani Wheels “her pumpkin”; sister, Vera Kemp, brothers, Robert Don E., Byron (Crystal), and Eugene (Raynelle), all of Des Moines; brother-in-law, Charles Manning of Denver, CO; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mari was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Quancidine Smith, Phyllis Wheels and Brenda Manning; sister-in-law, Barbara Sue Wheels; and brother-in-law, Harold Kemp.

There will be a celebration of life Saturday, April 24, 2021 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Hawkeye Elks #160/Rose Temple #33, 1401 Walker Street, Des Moines, IA 50316.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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