Larry Lynn Wheeler, 75, of West Burlington, died February 25, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. He was born in Burlington, Iowa, on July 19, 1950, the son of Jack and Doris Wheeler.
Larry was a 1969 graduate of West Burlington High School. Larry was a veteran, having served in the US Army. He worked at General Electric and then had a long and storied career as a law enforcement officer. Larry worked for the West Burlington Police Department, even serving for a short time as interim Chief. He then worked at the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office as a Sergeant.
Larry was an outdoorsman through and through. He enjoyed fishing, duck hunting, and turkey hunting, among other activities. Larry enjoyed a good meal, especially breakfast, with his fellow law enforcement retiree “breakfast club”. He also delighted in eating frog legs. Whoever enjoyed these meals with him was also sure to hear a story or two, as Larry always had a good one at hand.
Larry was known for his kindness, practicality, and sense of humor. He was quick to make a joke and tease all of those he loved. But he was also known for giving wise and straightforward advice. Larry’s kindness was especially shown by his lifelong dedication to taking care of his sister, Tammy.
Larry is fondly remembered by son, David Wheeler, of Lakeland, Fla., grandchildren Alanna, Jack, and Lily Wheeler, all of Lakeland, sisters Nan (Brent) Johnston of Kingwood, Texas, and Tammy of West Burlington, and many, many, special lifelong friends. Larry is also survived by his fiancée, Sheila Crowner, who was his constant companion over the past five years.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepmother, Bert Wheeler.
According to his wishes, cremation services have been entrusted to Lunning Chapel. Though no services are planned, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. A memorial has been established for Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House and the Klein Center. Contributions can be sent to Lunning Chapel.