Robert E. “Poppy” Wheeler, 94, died peacefully on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his home in Lenox, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 27, 1929, in Pittsfield, to the late Russell and Madeline Farnum Wheeler.
Robert attended Lenox High School as a 1947 graduate. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1953.
Robert worked as an auto mechanic for many years and then for General Electric, retiring in 1991. He was a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. Bob lived his entire life in Lenox, where he was known by everyone and often to referred to as the “Mayor of Lenox.” He would greet you with the biggest smile and a joke or two. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he was a kind and humble soul.
Bob’s greatest joy was getting in his car and driving either to Ogunquit, Maine; Cape Cod; or Rhode Island with his wife Peggy at his side. He enjoyed swimming in the ocean, meeting people along the Marginal Way, eating the local fare, and, of course, ice cream. If he wasn’t in downtown Lenox, you could find Poppy at Wheeler’s Market having coffee with his buddy John scratching their lottery tickets and reminiscing.
Mr. Wheeler is survived by his children, Linda A. Babich (Greg) of Richmond, Robert J. Wheeler of Lenox, and Timothy M. Wheeler of Marlboro; six granddaughters, Natalie, Nicole, Kelly, Megan Besse (Tyler), Carly, and Leah; one great-grandson, Ryan Besse; and his sister Barbara Sibley of Lenox.
A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 10 a.m., in St. Ann’s Church with Monsignor John Bonzagni officiating. Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either HospiceCare in the Berkshires, Elder Services, or UCP in care of the Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main Street, Lenox, MA 01240.
The family would like to thank all of Robert’s wonderful caretakers who were so caring and loving allowing him to remain at home.
To share memories and stories, please visit the funeral home’s website.
