James "Jim" Wendell Wheeler
August 31, 1931 — April 27, 2026
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Service Details
James W. Wheeler
Des Moines, Iowa
James “Jim” Wendell Wheeler, of Des Moines, passed away at the age of 94. Jim was born on August 31, 1931 in Des Moines, Iowa to James William and Mildred Pearl (Campbell) Wheeler.
Jim graduated from North High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Bangor, Maine, he met the love of his life, Phyllis Mae Dunton. Their bond became the foundation of a life centered on family, love, and quiet devotion.
In 1955, Jim and his family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he served with the Atlanta Fire Department. In 1965, he returned to Des Moines to care for his grandmother, Annabel and his great aunt, Bessie Miller - an act that reflected his deep sense of responsibility and compassion.
Jim later worked for the United States Postal Service, where he became a respected leader, serving for many years as a Local Union President and a National Union Vice President. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to those he represented.
Jim also cherished the simple joys in life. He loved spending time with his friends at McDonald’s sharing coffee, conversation, and plenty of laughs. Those everyday moments meant a lot to him and to those who loved him best.
Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis; son, Mark; parents; and brothers, Waldo and Milton.
He is lovingly remembered by his son, Bill; grandchildren, Archie, Mark, Phyllis, and Jennifer; ten great grandchildren; sister, Paula; and brother, Robert, all whom carry forward his legacy.
Family will greet guests on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines. A Graveside service will follow visitation at 12:00 p.m. at Pine Hill Cemetery in Des Moines, Iowa
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to go towards DMARC Food Pantry Network in loving memory of Jim Wheeler.
Jim will be remembered for his lifetime of service – to his country, his community, and most of all, his family.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Kevin L Johnson
05/08/2026
My sympathy to Jim's family and friends. He was a joy talking with him and discussing his his experiences in the Air Force and other topics.
Don Foley
05/07/2026
Jim Wheeler – What a great guy he was. I met Jim when he was Central Region Vice President of the Maintenance Craft and I was a brand new local Maintenance Craft president. That was probably in 1977 or ‘78. He became the focal point of my education into representing the Maintenance Craft in the APWU; and he remained my mentor in learning the necessities and skills for advocating the cases of our members. We became good friends and Jim taught me most of what I learned about arbitration and about the APWU in general. He was a great arbitration advocate who was always advancing the process and educating anyone who would listen. I greatly enjoyed working with him for about fifteen years. It was in 1995 that Jim decided to leave his National Business Agent position and try to become the Central Region Coordinator – and he decided that I should be his successor in the NBA position. With his support and help, I was very lucky to be elected into his former position as Central Region Maintenance Craft NBA. And I continued to rely on Jim to help me become successful in his former position.
Jim was one of the best arbitration advocates in our Union. He was also devoted to advancing the causes and work of our Union. But, at the same time, he was deeply committed to supporting his family, about whom he spoke much and often – very proud of everything they did.
We stayed in touch for all those years after he left Union office, exchanging Christmas cards every year – where he would summarize how his last year had gone, each year. I miss you, Jim. And I hope your family continues to do well after your departure.
Jack and Marilyn Corbin
05/06/2026
To Bill and Family, our deepest sympathy on the loss of your Father. You are so blessed you had so many years with him. I know you are sad, but remember all the good times with Jim and he will live on in your hearts forever. Take care and God Bless.
Diana L Savage
05/01/2026
Bill, so sorry for your loss. Your Dad always had something nice to say. I remember when my husband Steve passed, he came and just pushed over what a wonderful man he was. It gave me comfort. God bless you and your family.
Ginger Sheridan
04/29/2026
I’m so sorry for your loss of an amazing man. Had several conversations with Jim at Mc Donald’s and when he would come to visit my parents, Fran and Jerry. Jim you will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Forever in my heart.
Ginger Sheridan