Glenn David Wheeler, 68, of Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood, passed away in his home Jan. 27 surrounded by faithful friends.
Born October 31, 1957, in Indianapolis, he always produced an elaborate Halloween theme on his birthdays, which all of his friends enjoyed. Glenn graduated from Lawrence Central High School.
From the earliest time he could remember, Glenn had an interest in drawing and painting. As with most kids, this early talent was nurtured by a favorite teacher, Mrs. DeWitt. Glenn went on to be editor of his school newspaper, where his love for art continued to blossom.
At age 22, Glenn left Indiana for the bright lights of Chicago, which was to become his home for life. It was in Chicago that his talent matured. Glenn began working in the service industry, managing several well-known restaurants and making many friends along the way.
It wasn’t long before he was able to devote his energies completely to art and make a living from it. Glenn focused on home decor. He joined forces with Shawn Daly, a top producer with Coldwell Banker on the North Shore. With Shawn as realtor, Glenn beautified luxury homes on the Gold Coast and in some of the North Shore’s most desired neighborhoods. While Glenn accepted commissioned work, he was best known for his innovative techniques in the decorative arts. He had a unique eye for proportion and design, which kept clients coming back.
Glenn was an avid devotee of physical fitness and always in the gym. When a health matter required the amputation of his legs, Glenn never stopped for a moment. He loved seeing new places; Provincetown was a favorite and he spoke often of his cross-country trip on the train to San Francisco.
Glenn will be sorely missed by his loving family, a legion of friends and his bird GiGi.
Brother of John Dwayne Wheeler (Melanie), Rhonda Faye Harrison (Peter), and Delpha Ann Wheeler Czilli (the late Dan Czilli).
Uncle of Justin Escue, Erica Escue, Sarah Harrison and Noah, Samantha, Kemonie, Lydia, DeAnthony and Evan Wheeler.
Preceded in death by his parents, Glendell Dwayne and Wanda Faye Wheeler.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be given in honor of Glenn to: Meals on Wheels Chicago (mealsonwheelschicago.org). Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-318-1305 or www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com.