Robert Don Eldon Wheels

Robert Don Eldon Wheels was born the son of Robert and Martha (Williams) Wheels on November 14, 1944, in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from East High School, class of 1964. He was the first son and the fifth child of Robert and Martha. Robert grew up with seven siblings in the order of Quancidine Smith, Phyllis Wheels, Brenda (Charles) Manning, Vera (Harold) Kemp, Byron Sr. (Crystal) Wheels Eugene (Raynell) Wheels, and Mariruth Wheels. Robert served in the army for two years. Robert married the love of his lifetime Barbara Sue (Moore) Wheels on December 18, 1967, and created 3 children.

Robert worked for Firestone, the Packing house and retired from Koch Brothers. He also volunteered his services for many years for Estes and Son Funeral home and the Union Hall of Des Moines, Iowa. Robert and his family resided in Denver from 1975-1979 before returning home to Des Moines, Iowa. Robert loved helping family and friends, working in his yard, keeping his cars clean at all times, reading the newspaper, buying scratch-off tickets, having a good time, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also had a special bond with his two brothers and looked forward to seeing them. They would come to visit with him four to six days a week and stay just before darkness, spending their time drinking coffee, watching tv and talking about many things. Most people probably did not know he also listened to sermons, with the brothers as well.

Robert passed away Friday, April 12,2024 at Veterans CLC in Des Moines, Iowa. He was 79 years old. Robert has left behind his memory to hold dear for children, Joey D. Wheels (Andrea) and Saretta J. Bates; grandchildren, Brice A. Wood, London D. Butts, Juliano R. Dock, Jumacia S. Dock, and Anthony (A.J) B. Bates; great-grandchildren, Harmony Wood, Neveah Butts, Carter Wood, Laylani Butts, Londyn Butts and Jueler Dock; his siblings, Byron Wheels (Crystal), Eugene Wheels (Raynelle), and brother-in-law Charles Manning; and a host of nieces and nephews, as well as other extended family, and friends.

Robert is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Wheels; his son, Brian Wheels, Sr.; his parents, Robert “Preach” and Martha Wheels; his sisters, Brenda Manning, Quancidine Smith, Phyllis Wheels, Vera Kemp, and Mariruth Wheels; and his grandchildren, Kayla Butts, Jimmie Dock Jr., and Brian Wheels Jr.

Graveside service will be held at Iowa Veterans Cemetery on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Iowa Veterans Cemetery is located at 34024 Veterans Memorial Drive, Adel, Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.
Condolences may be expressed at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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