JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Ronald K. Wheeler, 71, of Jacksonville, Florida, and formerly of Defiance, passed away on Tuesday, August 16, 2016, at Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville.

He was born on May 12, 1945, to Keith and Frances (Wells) Wheeler in Defiance. On July 18, 1981, he married Nancy (Hayward) Wheeler, who resides In Florida.

Ron was a former member of First Presbyterian Church in Defiance and an active member of Lakewood Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville Fla. He worked for CSX Transportation as a customer service representative for 48 years. Ron enjoyed exploring the outdoors, bird watching, and fishing.

Ron is survived by his loving spouse of 35 years, Nancy Wheeler of Jacksonville, Fla.; son, Allan (Tracy) Deetz, and daughter-in-law Kristi Deetz; five grandchildren, Alec, Tyler and Travis Deetz, Kenneth and Elizabeth Deetz; a brother, Tom Wheeler of Defiance; and a sister, Susan (Mike) Price of Defiance.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Keith Wheeler; and son, Brad Deetz.

Visitation will be held from 2-6 p.m. on Sunday, August 21, 2016, at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance, where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 22, 2016. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to The Audubon Society. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.