Birth date: Jan 25, 1923 Death date: Apr 21, 2019
Richard Kenneth “Ken” Wheeler, 96, passed away on Easter, April 21, 2019. Although born in Pomona, CA. on January 25, 1923, either Gig Harbor or Tacoma were always “home,” with Tacoma being his last residency. Ken had a “Tom Sawy Read Obituary
Ken’s name wasn’t just “Ken”, was it? To us, it was “Ken and Sharon”. One of the last times we saw Ken, he was in the hospital and it was a “good” day for him. After our visit, I remember thinking, “This is how I want to remember Ken.” He laughed, he visited, he was witty. It reminded me of my own Daddy when he told us, “How could a man have so much wrong with him and feel so good.” (Cancer) Forever and ever I will hear Ken, from that day, saying, “Honeybun,” to his other half, Sharon. He was asking her something....but his dear name for her and his love for her are to me his greatest legacy. I will cherish witnessing that love again and again. Ed and I were blessed to have visited Ken on Easter Sunday. He was not awake, but also not in pain, which for us was prayers answered. I truly believe that the angels surrounded Ken that day and lifted him gently into the heavens, and how fitting that it was Easter Sunday....so many promises, and ..."his “honeybun” was beside him...❤️
Words are hard to find to express how much we will miss our dear friend. The world needs more Kens! He was a true gentleman. He lived with gentleness and strength, honesty and truth, forgiveness and acceptance, loyalty and respect, love and humor. Ken served our country admirally and we thank him. His family represents the love he shared with others, especially his “Honeybun.” Love you Ken.
What a privilege to be able to write a few words about a man that I so admired. Ken was much more than just a neighbor as he was a great friend, a resource, a mentor and a real joy to spend time with. We were truly brothers in arms as well as brothers in the Lord.
And now I expect that he will be looking after my two sons as he has for me for these past 20+ years. I know that we are all richer for having had Ken in our lives. God has truly blessed us.
Joe & Margie Eynon
Dad raised 6 siblings and 2 step siblings with love and endurance. He taught respect and morals and values. He taught acceptance and strength. Dad showed love of his Savior and country and life. He gave easily. I thank God for giving this family such a wonderful father, husband, and teacher. I love you so much Daddy'O and now we pass you into the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ. Love, Nancy.
We shall miss Uncle Kenny. He was such a role model for me. He was always interesting and interested. We went to the Museum of Flight a couple of years ago. The docent there said he learned more from Uncle Kenny than we learned from him. I'll always remember that.
When I was a kid, he would take my dad and I racing on the Ichi Ban. I always loved those trips and learned a lot, too. Not necessarily about sailing, but about life and attitude. I will always remember that, too.
