FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2004
(STATEHOUSE) Retired state Senator Harold “Potch” Wheeler of Larwill died early this morning at the age of 75 after battling multiple myeloma, a form of bone cancer. He served Senate District 17 in northern Indiana from 1983 to 2002, and was Majority Caucus Chairman upon his retirement.
“It is impossible to capture, with just a few words, the essence of a dear friend,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Robert D. Garton. “He was respected and beloved, but those words alone do not adequately illustrate his wit, charm, integrity and leadership.
“Potch left an indelible mark on the Senate and on the many friendships he built during his years of public service. From the time he was a freshman senator, I witnessed the positive impact he made on his community, his state, and the people around him. Potch was a good man with good intentions, and I will miss him a great deal. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family and friends at this sorrowful time.”
Sen. Wheeler was known to be an avid golfer and fisherman, as well as a successful businessman. He had an integral role in his family business, M.C. Wheeler & Sons, Inc., founded by his great-grandfather in 1884 and carried on today by his son.
Sen. Wheeler was known to his family, friends, and colleagues as simply “Potch,” a childhood nickname. He is survived by his wife, Darlene; his children, Johnna, Kim and Tara; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Arrangements are pending and will be announced as soon as possible.
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