Richard Eugene Wheaton

Richard Eugene ‘Rick’ Wheaton, 70, of Benton Harbor passed away on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph, with his loving wife, Marie, by his side.

Rick was born on Feb. 11, 1953, in Tampa, Fla., to George and Nadine (Summers) Wheaton. He attended Hawaii State University and served in the U.S. Army from Oct. 23, 1972 - Oct. 24, 1975, stationed in Hawaii. He held various jobs throughout his life with his last job being at Hoffman Die Cast in St. Joseph, where he retired from in June 2023, after thirty years of employment.

Rick was an avid hunter and fisherman. He raised quail, loved his dogs and was a die hard Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan. He loved westerns; John Wayne was his favorite. He also had a great love for music.

Rick is survived by his wife, Marie, whom he married on Jan. 6, 2006; his daughter, Michelle (Ryan) Mattimore of Hartford; his granddaughter, Alissa Mattimore of Hartford; his siblings: Gary Wheaton of Stevensville, Randy (Debbie) Wheaton of Benton Harbor, Virginia Grissom of Florida and Judy Spears of Benton Harbor. He’s also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law; as well as many nieces and nephews. He helped raise Sam and Stephanie Henley after their parents passed away. Special friends who were very close to him include: Bill Stanley, Ryan, Meridith, Lainie, Addie, Rayleigh and Brantley Keath and Terrell Tillman.

Rick was preceded in passing by his first wife, Sherrie (Belvins) Wheaton; his parents; brothers: Jimmy Odell and George Wheaton; and a sister, Karen Milmikel.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral services will be on Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The family will welcome everyone beginning at 1 p.m., with the service starting at 2 p.m. A private burial will be held at a later date. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.