Mark Wheeler
Aug 31st 1959 - Dec 14th 2007
Print All
cousin 'Dayla Ward Seal
March 7th 2010
My dearest beloved Mark, I feel so fortunate that the bond we shared was never lost even though we were separated by years and miles. I have and will forever love you and cherish each memory that I have of you. We were the rebels of our fine family but I am glad that we were always there to love and support one another. I hear you are a grandfather to Tiffany's baby. I know how proud you would have been and I am proud for you and Wag and Vonne. I will never get over your loss. It hits me especially hard and I still haven't been able to stop crying. I am glad that so many people still love you and honor your memory. I can't wait to see you on the other side. Say a big hello to Mary Beth for me. Love forever and ever. Dayla Jane "Daisy"
Tiffany Wheeler
June 20th 2009
HI Dad, I haven't wrote here in quite a long time I think about you every day and miss you so much! I am expecting a little girl now! We are so excited and I know that you are so happy for me! I love you so so much and never a day goes by that I don't think of you love you angel.
Your loving daughter, Tiffany
Tiffany Wheeler
August 5th 2008
Daddy I still think of you each and every day! Your my motivation in life right now to make you happy looking over me! I know that whenever I get down your over me telling me to don't give up and to keep moving forward! Your my rock in heaven and I know that your enjoying your life making sure that things are going your way! Haha I am now excepting the fact that you have are away and I can move in the right direction now. :) Love you always and forever and can't wait to see you again in another life with you.
Love you Dad, Tiffany
Rhonda "Long" James
June 16th 2008
Mark was just a great guy. We talked the last time he was in town. Shared lots of memories and had a great visit. Mark was a true Sallisaw Black Diamond and friend! My thoughts go out to the whole Wheeler Family. God Bless, Rhonda
Tommy Monroe
December 28th 2007
Wow! Everyday was great time with Mark! One of the funniest things he ALWAYS did, was when we'd go uptown or riding around or whatever we were up to, Mark would ask to use your rearview mirror. Well when he was done fixing his hair or whatever he was doing, he would just take you mirror & turn it diagonally or at a 45degree angle! You be driving along and notice when you looked in it to see what was behing you! It was always a laughing matter! He could put your heart in a laughing mode almost every time he was with you! There were the times when we'd park by the railroad tracks and walk back to this bluff overlooking this valley off McCoy Ford Rd! It was a beautiful sight, and I guess Mark had discovered it one day, but the important thing is that he shared it with us! He always shared the good things in life with his friends! He was loved & will continue to be loved until we all get together again!
Love ya, Wheeler!
Tommy
Big Brother Randy
December 26th 2007
Brother,
There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you. You where always the rock and strength that kept me on my toes. I will miss our phone talks. I look forward to the day that we reunite and can once again run through the woods and roam the hillside at McKey Hill. Until then I know you are in good company. You can go fishing with Poppi and work in the garden with Grand Ma Mary. Just remember one thing brother, don't ever tell Grand Ma Mary she can't out run you, you know she can. Get the boxing gloves ready we have a rematch scheduled when I see you. I think I can still take you. Until we meet again Mark I love you and will see you on the other side. Randy
Leslie (Merrill) Jacobs
December 24th 2007
Mark and I were friends in school and had several classes together. The funniest thing I remember was disecting a cat in Mr. Pratt's Biology II class. Mark was my lab partner and I didn't want to touch, much less cut on that poor animal. Mark let me be the transcriber and he did the disecting. For extra points, Mr. Pratt told us we could create a cat skeleton by boiling the cat until the bones separated. Well, I got volunteered for this job and Mark and I decided the process would go much faster if some bleach was added to the water. I took that cat to my Grandmother Reed's house, proceeded to put the cat and bleach into the cauldron and crank up the fire. By the time Mark got there, the fumes were getting so bad we could hardly keep our eyes open. Needless to say, we never got the extra points and my grandmother had to vacate her house for several days. Mark was a great friend and classmate. My prayers go out to his family. May God bless each of you.
Dayla Ward Seal
December 20th 2007
Mark will be misses by all whose lives he touched, but to me Mark was so much more than a beloved cousin, he was also my friend and confidant. We shared a very special bond and I am so lucky and so blessed to have had him be a pert of my life. As part of the Wheeler family, our lives will forever be connected. We are such a fortunate clan, having grown up with such closeness that so many families never experience. With Mark and me, that bond and closeness was never more evident than in a time of crisis. It was then that, I , especially, was able to draw on his strength and encouragement, and especially his unconditional love. My heart goes out to Denise, Tiffany, Ryan and our family. I love you, Cousin!! And I will forever miss that laugh! Say hello to Poppi and Grandma and Grandma Mary and Grandpa Mary. One day we will all be laughing and sharing our eternities together, so save a place for me, Cuz! Love, Dayla Jane
Karen Millering
December 18th 2007
The thing I remember most about Mark was how fun he always was when we got together for family gatherings. I remember his laughter and how charming he could be. My husband Mike and I had fun getting together with Mark and my sister Kim to play cards and play pool. I won't forget how fond of Frisbee golf Mark was. We all went to the Frisbee golf course at a park and Mark taught us how to play. Mark had a strong Love of Life. We will miss you Mark. God Bless you,
Love, Karen
(zuchini woman)
(Zucchini woman)
Adam Steinebach
December 18th 2007
The first thing I think of when I hear Mark's name mentioned, is summers at the party store. Ryan and I spent a lot of time up there, but in the end, it just doesn't seem like enough. Mark taught me how to make Banana Pancakes. I vividly remember painting his shed with Ryan one summer. It was among the fondest memories in my life. Thanks for that Mark. You were a loved father, and husband. I mourn for you, and for those you left here on planet Earth. My best wishes to Ryan, Tiffany, and all the family.
Fred Watts
December 18th 2007
Mark "Wheels" Wheeler. A super human being, an excellent wrestler, a feared running back and most of all a beloved friend. Between Wheeler and Dogwood Streets and Ida and Lucy Streets a number of Sallisaw Black Diamond football players were raised. Mark Wheeler was one of them. Mark was one of the most feared running backs to ever play for Sallisaw. I had the honor and privilege to play in the same backfield with Mark. I remember, after blocking, looking up and seeing Mark run with all his might; feeling sorry for anyone who got in his way. He would punish them! Mark Wheeler was and still is what Sallisaw football is all about. Webster's definition of a football player should have a picture of Mark Wheeler beside it. Mark was my friend. I grew up in the same neighborhood as Mark as several of us did. We all had a lot of good times that will nener be forgotten. All too many to mention. My memories of Mark will stay with me forever. There will never be another one like him. God bless Mark and all of his Family. Love You Mark. Fred
Kimberly Ann Wheeler
December 17th 2007
July 18th 1981, St. John vianney church,Gods house, Blessed by Jesus christ our Savior, Guided by the Holy Spirit,A journey begins! November 11th 1982 we were blessed with a gift from above! Alicia Ann, No! Mark saysTiffany Ann. I like Alicia. I like Tiffany. Ok! Ok! You know, "Tiffanys" in New York the Famous Jewelry Store? My little diamond I like that he says. Ok! Ok!, Tiffany it is! and, you know she still shines with that beautiful Wheeler Smile.16 months later March 14th 1984 another blessing 10lb 2 ounce baby boy Ryan Jacob, or, Jacob Ryan Mark says.No, I like Ryan Jacob. Ok Ok your turn to name,Hense the Nick name(Big Jake). Best memories 185 Tottenham, 12x50 Mobile Home. Mark got layed off from Steelcase for 3 months. He stayed home with Tiff. Recorded her voice on tape of Goo's & ga's so I wouldn't miss a thing while I was at work. He loved his children dearly & was the best Daddy then. Card games with friends Tim & Joanne Zyskowski, & Paul & Maryjoe Zobro,Terry Baab & Michelle. Mark was then a Southern gentlemen, was hospitable & loved his friends & family. His struggles in life have now brought him back home to his maker & I have no doubt he is now being held in his arms! Rest easy Mr. Mark Stinnett Wheeler. Say hello to Grandpa Fax for me!
Denise Wheeler
December 17th 2007
Sweetheart,
As I sit here trying to write this, I realize that there are not enough words to express all the love and laughter you brought into my life. I will never forget your smile, your beautiful blue eyes or your tender and gentle spirit.
I will always cherish our late night dances with your arms lovingly around me. I will never forget playing cards and laughing when I caught you trying to "fix the cards" because they "accidently" fell on the floor.
You've given me so much in our short time together. You have gifted me with a love greater than I ever thought possible. Falling in love with you is the easiest thing I have ever done.
I know we will be together again but until then I will miss you every minute of every day. You will always be in my thoughts and forever in my heart. I love you.
Your Loving Wife,
Littlefoot
Erica Wojcik
December 17th 2007
One of my favorite memories of Mark was the time I met he and my mom at the casino in Mt. Pleasant. I normally play the slot machines but Mark was determined that I would learn how to play blackjack. I had never played before because the card tables made me nervous. Mark, however, would not take "no" for an answer. So, Mark and I sat down at a card table while my mom played a couple tables down (recently my mom told me that was because Mark always said she interfered with him getting good cards!). As we were playing Mark would give me pointers. If I tried to stay and he didn't think it was a good idea he would send me a look, a hand gesture, or little nod of his head. Of course, being as strong willed as he, I didn't always listen! Needless to say I ran out money fairly quickly. As I lost my last chip, Mark kept hitting me under the table. I looked at him like he was nuts only to realize he was passing me chips under the table. So all night just as I would run out of money I would magically pull chips from under the card table. I'll never know how much money I cost him but we sure did have a great time -- although (sorry Mark) I still can't play blackjack.
Mark, thank you for loving my mom so fiercely. I will always be thankful to have been apart of your family even for a short while. I love you.
Erica
Paul Zobro
December 17th 2007
Mark and I have had many great memories together. We met in the summer of 1978 tearing down older houses in Grand Rapids. He had long hair and was wearing a cowboy hat in downtown Grand Rapids. My first impression was who in the hell is this guy? We continued to work together that summer, our friendship grew; and we became like family. Following our summer work we began to condition for the upcoming football season at Grand Rapids Community College. We played together for two years and remained best of friends on and off the field. We enjoyed playing cards and being around one another on the weekends. Mark was in my wedding and I was in his. Wheeler I will miss you
Love
Zob
Tiffany
December 17th 2007
Dad, you will always hold a special place in our heart. The Wheeler blood will keep us strong until we meet again. You have instilled that into Ryan and I and that is what keeps us strong because of you. Your strong will and courage to make sure that it was the right time to go will always be rememberd by me. You protected us while you were here and now you will be our protector, our guardian angel as long as we live. No worries cause we know your looking after us. Love you forever Dad, Tiff
Cynda "Wheeler" Real
December 17th 2007
Little Brother - Although you have gone to be with our grandparents, you are still here with us in our hearts. You were truly a very special brother and had the biggest heart of anyone I know. Nothing will ever take away our memories and you will never be forgotten by any that you so dearly touched their lives. Now you can watch over us all and be our guardian angel. Until we are together again my little brother you'll be truly missed. I love you, Your Sis
Denise (Ballew) Kostka
December 17th 2007
I also grew up in the same neighborhood as Mark. I can remember him and his cousin, Chris Hensley, tormenting me a lot--all in fun though!! I remember one 4th of July in particular when he and Chris decided to put all of their fireworks in a trash can and set it off!! You should've seen the mess the next day!! Mark was a grade ahead of me in school and an awesome athlete. He was the one all the girls had a crush on. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Kelly Mitchell
December 17th 2007
Mark and I were inseparable when we were boys. We knew every person, dog, cat, house, tree in our little town of Sallisaw, Oklahoma. We swam in every creek, lake, coal pit (and ditch if it had rained enough). We played cowboys and Indians (the Indians always won). We played football with our buddies until they tired, then we went one on one in our mother's yards until it was solid mud. We only went inside to make a bologna and cheese sandwich. That break usually ended in a wrestling match through out the house, until we decided we needed more room and went back outside to finish it. Though we never ever finished our match. We competed in everything we did. But we were at our best when we were on the same side. We knew exactly what the other would do and when he would do it. In junior high, I handed the baton to Mark, our anchor, on the relay team. In high school, we were Co-Captains of the football team. I blocked and he carried the ball. Every team we played knew it was Wheeler right or Wheeler left, just see which side Mitchell lined up on. But they still couldn't stop us. We always had each other's back and we knew that for sure. I will always love you my friend.
joe samuels
December 16th 2007
Mark and I not only worked at steelcase but we also developed a friendship that lasted long after he ventured into another line of work. Mark and I had some great times together fishing and just hanging out. He was a true friend in every sense of the word and I will miss him. Although we had not been in close touch for a couple years, he still found time to call me at steelcase to let me know what was up with him on occasion. See ya later my friend.
Judy Gilland
December 16th 2007
I worked with Mark at Steelcase in Michigan. He was a great guy, always fun to be around, and liked by many. We were all trying to find ourselves back then, while raising families and making friends. So many things have changed since those days. I'm glad that Mark found happiness in his life. I'm sure he will be missed by his family and friends.
rick agent
December 16th 2007
Mark was a true childhood friend. We lived in the same nieghborhood growing up and I still live about two blocks east of where Mark was raised at the corner of Lucy and Poplar. We played football in the Ellis yard road bikes to the Jiffy Mart and made tunnels in the jungle at the end of poplar street. Mark, Chris, Kelly, Rick and Eddie were usually together every day good or bad in High School. Mark was the toughest running back I played with in High School. I will truly miss him.
cousin 'Dayla Ward Seal
March 7th 2010
My dearest beloved Mark, I feel so fortunate that the bond we shared was never lost even though we were separated by years and miles. I have and will forever love you and cherish each memory that I have of you. We were the rebels of our fine family but I am glad that we were always there to love and support one another. I hear you are a grandfather to Tiffany's baby. I know how proud you would have been and I am proud for you and Wag and Vonne. I will never get over your loss. It hits me especially hard and I still haven't been able to stop crying. I am glad that so many people still love you and honor your memory. I can't wait to see you on the other side. Say a big hello to Mary Beth for me. Love forever and ever. Dayla Jane "Daisy"
Tiffany Wheeler
June 20th 2009
HI Dad, I haven't wrote here in quite a long time I think about you every day and miss you so much! I am expecting a little girl now! We are so excited and I know that you are so happy for me! I love you so so much and never a day goes by that I don't think of you love you angel.
Your loving daughter, Tiffany
Tiffany Wheeler
August 5th 2008
Daddy I still think of you each and every day! Your my motivation in life right now to make you happy looking over me! I know that whenever I get down your over me telling me to don't give up and to keep moving forward! Your my rock in heaven and I know that your enjoying your life making sure that things are going your way! Haha I am now excepting the fact that you have are away and I can move in the right direction now. :) Love you always and forever and can't wait to see you again in another life with you.
Love you Dad, Tiffany
Rhonda "Long" James
June 16th 2008
Mark was just a great guy. We talked the last time he was in town. Shared lots of memories and had a great visit. Mark was a true Sallisaw Black Diamond and friend! My thoughts go out to the whole Wheeler Family. God Bless, Rhonda
Tommy Monroe
December 28th 2007
Wow! Everyday was great time with Mark! One of the funniest things he ALWAYS did, was when we'd go uptown or riding around or whatever we were up to, Mark would ask to use your rearview mirror. Well when he was done fixing his hair or whatever he was doing, he would just take you mirror & turn it diagonally or at a 45degree angle! You be driving along and notice when you looked in it to see what was behing you! It was always a laughing matter! He could put your heart in a laughing mode almost every time he was with you! There were the times when we'd park by the railroad tracks and walk back to this bluff overlooking this valley off McCoy Ford Rd! It was a beautiful sight, and I guess Mark had discovered it one day, but the important thing is that he shared it with us! He always shared the good things in life with his friends! He was loved & will continue to be loved until we all get together again!
Love ya, Wheeler!
Tommy
Big Brother Randy
December 26th 2007
Brother,
There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of you. You where always the rock and strength that kept me on my toes. I will miss our phone talks. I look forward to the day that we reunite and can once again run through the woods and roam the hillside at McKey Hill. Until then I know you are in good company. You can go fishing with Poppi and work in the garden with Grand Ma Mary. Just remember one thing brother, don't ever tell Grand Ma Mary she can't out run you, you know she can. Get the boxing gloves ready we have a rematch scheduled when I see you. I think I can still take you. Until we meet again Mark I love you and will see you on the other side. Randy
Leslie (Merrill) Jacobs
December 24th 2007
Mark and I were friends in school and had several classes together. The funniest thing I remember was disecting a cat in Mr. Pratt's Biology II class. Mark was my lab partner and I didn't want to touch, much less cut on that poor animal. Mark let me be the transcriber and he did the disecting. For extra points, Mr. Pratt told us we could create a cat skeleton by boiling the cat until the bones separated. Well, I got volunteered for this job and Mark and I decided the process would go much faster if some bleach was added to the water. I took that cat to my Grandmother Reed's house, proceeded to put the cat and bleach into the cauldron and crank up the fire. By the time Mark got there, the fumes were getting so bad we could hardly keep our eyes open. Needless to say, we never got the extra points and my grandmother had to vacate her house for several days. Mark was a great friend and classmate. My prayers go out to his family. May God bless each of you.
Dayla Ward Seal
December 20th 2007
Mark will be misses by all whose lives he touched, but to me Mark was so much more than a beloved cousin, he was also my friend and confidant. We shared a very special bond and I am so lucky and so blessed to have had him be a pert of my life. As part of the Wheeler family, our lives will forever be connected. We are such a fortunate clan, having grown up with such closeness that so many families never experience. With Mark and me, that bond and closeness was never more evident than in a time of crisis. It was then that, I , especially, was able to draw on his strength and encouragement, and especially his unconditional love. My heart goes out to Denise, Tiffany, Ryan and our family. I love you, Cousin!! And I will forever miss that laugh! Say hello to Poppi and Grandma and Grandma Mary and Grandpa Mary. One day we will all be laughing and sharing our eternities together, so save a place for me, Cuz! Love, Dayla Jane
Karen Millering
December 18th 2007
The thing I remember most about Mark was how fun he always was when we got together for family gatherings. I remember his laughter and how charming he could be. My husband Mike and I had fun getting together with Mark and my sister Kim to play cards and play pool. I won't forget how fond of Frisbee golf Mark was. We all went to the Frisbee golf course at a park and Mark taught us how to play. Mark had a strong Love of Life. We will miss you Mark. God Bless you,
Love, Karen
(zuchini woman)
(Zucchini woman)
Adam Steinebach
December 18th 2007
The first thing I think of when I hear Mark's name mentioned, is summers at the party store. Ryan and I spent a lot of time up there, but in the end, it just doesn't seem like enough. Mark taught me how to make Banana Pancakes. I vividly remember painting his shed with Ryan one summer. It was among the fondest memories in my life. Thanks for that Mark. You were a loved father, and husband. I mourn for you, and for those you left here on planet Earth. My best wishes to Ryan, Tiffany, and all the family.
Fred Watts
December 18th 2007
Mark "Wheels" Wheeler. A super human being, an excellent wrestler, a feared running back and most of all a beloved friend. Between Wheeler and Dogwood Streets and Ida and Lucy Streets a number of Sallisaw Black Diamond football players were raised. Mark Wheeler was one of them. Mark was one of the most feared running backs to ever play for Sallisaw. I had the honor and privilege to play in the same backfield with Mark. I remember, after blocking, looking up and seeing Mark run with all his might; feeling sorry for anyone who got in his way. He would punish them! Mark Wheeler was and still is what Sallisaw football is all about. Webster's definition of a football player should have a picture of Mark Wheeler beside it. Mark was my friend. I grew up in the same neighborhood as Mark as several of us did. We all had a lot of good times that will nener be forgotten. All too many to mention. My memories of Mark will stay with me forever. There will never be another one like him. God bless Mark and all of his Family. Love You Mark. Fred
Kimberly Ann Wheeler
December 17th 2007
July 18th 1981, St. John vianney church,Gods house, Blessed by Jesus christ our Savior, Guided by the Holy Spirit,A journey begins! November 11th 1982 we were blessed with a gift from above! Alicia Ann, No! Mark saysTiffany Ann. I like Alicia. I like Tiffany. Ok! Ok! You know, "Tiffanys" in New York the Famous Jewelry Store? My little diamond I like that he says. Ok! Ok!, Tiffany it is! and, you know she still shines with that beautiful Wheeler Smile.16 months later March 14th 1984 another blessing 10lb 2 ounce baby boy Ryan Jacob, or, Jacob Ryan Mark says.No, I like Ryan Jacob. Ok Ok your turn to name,Hense the Nick name(Big Jake). Best memories 185 Tottenham, 12x50 Mobile Home. Mark got layed off from Steelcase for 3 months. He stayed home with Tiff. Recorded her voice on tape of Goo's & ga's so I wouldn't miss a thing while I was at work. He loved his children dearly & was the best Daddy then. Card games with friends Tim & Joanne Zyskowski, & Paul & Maryjoe Zobro,Terry Baab & Michelle. Mark was then a Southern gentlemen, was hospitable & loved his friends & family. His struggles in life have now brought him back home to his maker & I have no doubt he is now being held in his arms! Rest easy Mr. Mark Stinnett Wheeler. Say hello to Grandpa Fax for me!
Denise Wheeler
December 17th 2007
Sweetheart,
As I sit here trying to write this, I realize that there are not enough words to express all the love and laughter you brought into my life. I will never forget your smile, your beautiful blue eyes or your tender and gentle spirit.
I will always cherish our late night dances with your arms lovingly around me. I will never forget playing cards and laughing when I caught you trying to "fix the cards" because they "accidently" fell on the floor.
You've given me so much in our short time together. You have gifted me with a love greater than I ever thought possible. Falling in love with you is the easiest thing I have ever done.
I know we will be together again but until then I will miss you every minute of every day. You will always be in my thoughts and forever in my heart. I love you.
Your Loving Wife,
Littlefoot
Erica Wojcik
December 17th 2007
One of my favorite memories of Mark was the time I met he and my mom at the casino in Mt. Pleasant. I normally play the slot machines but Mark was determined that I would learn how to play blackjack. I had never played before because the card tables made me nervous. Mark, however, would not take "no" for an answer. So, Mark and I sat down at a card table while my mom played a couple tables down (recently my mom told me that was because Mark always said she interfered with him getting good cards!). As we were playing Mark would give me pointers. If I tried to stay and he didn't think it was a good idea he would send me a look, a hand gesture, or little nod of his head. Of course, being as strong willed as he, I didn't always listen! Needless to say I ran out money fairly quickly. As I lost my last chip, Mark kept hitting me under the table. I looked at him like he was nuts only to realize he was passing me chips under the table. So all night just as I would run out of money I would magically pull chips from under the card table. I'll never know how much money I cost him but we sure did have a great time -- although (sorry Mark) I still can't play blackjack.
Mark, thank you for loving my mom so fiercely. I will always be thankful to have been apart of your family even for a short while. I love you.
Erica
Paul Zobro
December 17th 2007
Mark and I have had many great memories together. We met in the summer of 1978 tearing down older houses in Grand Rapids. He had long hair and was wearing a cowboy hat in downtown Grand Rapids. My first impression was who in the hell is this guy? We continued to work together that summer, our friendship grew; and we became like family. Following our summer work we began to condition for the upcoming football season at Grand Rapids Community College. We played together for two years and remained best of friends on and off the field. We enjoyed playing cards and being around one another on the weekends. Mark was in my wedding and I was in his. Wheeler I will miss you
Love
Zob
Tiffany
December 17th 2007
Dad, you will always hold a special place in our heart. The Wheeler blood will keep us strong until we meet again. You have instilled that into Ryan and I and that is what keeps us strong because of you. Your strong will and courage to make sure that it was the right time to go will always be rememberd by me. You protected us while you were here and now you will be our protector, our guardian angel as long as we live. No worries cause we know your looking after us. Love you forever Dad, Tiff
Cynda "Wheeler" Real
December 17th 2007
Little Brother - Although you have gone to be with our grandparents, you are still here with us in our hearts. You were truly a very special brother and had the biggest heart of anyone I know. Nothing will ever take away our memories and you will never be forgotten by any that you so dearly touched their lives. Now you can watch over us all and be our guardian angel. Until we are together again my little brother you'll be truly missed. I love you, Your Sis
Denise (Ballew) Kostka
December 17th 2007
I also grew up in the same neighborhood as Mark. I can remember him and his cousin, Chris Hensley, tormenting me a lot--all in fun though!! I remember one 4th of July in particular when he and Chris decided to put all of their fireworks in a trash can and set it off!! You should've seen the mess the next day!! Mark was a grade ahead of me in school and an awesome athlete. He was the one all the girls had a crush on. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Kelly Mitchell
December 17th 2007
Mark and I were inseparable when we were boys. We knew every person, dog, cat, house, tree in our little town of Sallisaw, Oklahoma. We swam in every creek, lake, coal pit (and ditch if it had rained enough). We played cowboys and Indians (the Indians always won). We played football with our buddies until they tired, then we went one on one in our mother's yards until it was solid mud. We only went inside to make a bologna and cheese sandwich. That break usually ended in a wrestling match through out the house, until we decided we needed more room and went back outside to finish it. Though we never ever finished our match. We competed in everything we did. But we were at our best when we were on the same side. We knew exactly what the other would do and when he would do it. In junior high, I handed the baton to Mark, our anchor, on the relay team. In high school, we were Co-Captains of the football team. I blocked and he carried the ball. Every team we played knew it was Wheeler right or Wheeler left, just see which side Mitchell lined up on. But they still couldn't stop us. We always had each other's back and we knew that for sure. I will always love you my friend.
joe samuels
December 16th 2007
Mark and I not only worked at steelcase but we also developed a friendship that lasted long after he ventured into another line of work. Mark and I had some great times together fishing and just hanging out. He was a true friend in every sense of the word and I will miss him. Although we had not been in close touch for a couple years, he still found time to call me at steelcase to let me know what was up with him on occasion. See ya later my friend.
Judy Gilland
December 16th 2007
I worked with Mark at Steelcase in Michigan. He was a great guy, always fun to be around, and liked by many. We were all trying to find ourselves back then, while raising families and making friends. So many things have changed since those days. I'm glad that Mark found happiness in his life. I'm sure he will be missed by his family and friends.
rick agent
December 16th 2007
Mark was a true childhood friend. We lived in the same nieghborhood growing up and I still live about two blocks east of where Mark was raised at the corner of Lucy and Poplar. We played football in the Ellis yard road bikes to the Jiffy Mart and made tunnels in the jungle at the end of poplar street. Mark, Chris, Kelly, Rick and Eddie were usually together every day good or bad in High School. Mark was the toughest running back I played with in High School. I will truly miss him.
