Harry John Wheelehon

Harry J. Wheelehon, 78, of Piedmont, Missouri passed away peacefully at home on May 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.  

Born on October 13, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, Harry was a mixture of grumpy old man and sweet PawPaw.  He had a lifelong love of fishing and hunting, although more for the time he got to spend with those he went with than to actually catch the fish or deer.  His dry sense of humor and true “Wheelehon style” of poking fun drew people to him whether around the Christmas table, at the pawn shop, or in the fishing boat.  It was his way of saying, “I love you but I’m still going to give you a hard time.”  

Harry was drafted into the Army at 19 and served his country in Vietnam, earning a Purple Heart. Although he was proud of his service, he shared little about that chapter of his life.  However, it was obvious that it impacted him deeply and gave him a quiet toughness.  

Harry was preceded in death by his older brothers Zeke and Dale (Anita), and his younger brother Tom (Alice). He is survived by his sister Mary Ricker (Brian).

He was married for 27 years to Yvonne, the love of his life.  Their love story began thanks to some very smart matchmaking by his nephew Joe and his wife Brenda, who knew a good thing when they saw it—and were absolutely right. Together, Harry and Yvonne set a beautiful example of how to blend a family with grace, love, and a lot of good food. 

When Harry retired, he moved to Piedmont full-time and easily adapted to an even slower pace, more time with Yvonne and his local family and friends.

Harry is survived by his children, Doug Wheelehon (Angela), Jennifer Wheelehon (Donald Osley), and stepson Cory Thompson (Annie). He was a proud grandfather to Jake (Caitlin), Matthew, Ryan, Evan, Colin, and Ellie. He was also great grandfather to Olivia and beloved uncle and friend to many.

He had a lifelong passion for collecting “treasures”—whether from estate sales, flea markets, or haggling at the “antique” shop he once owned.  To Harry, the thrill of finding the item and getting the deal was the best part.  His collections were many and he was always on the hunt to find the next treasure.

Harry was also an expert at “shooting the breeze,” being the unofficial neighborhood watchman and traffic cop, and discussing the world’s problems from his porch or kitchen chair. 

Those who knew Harry, loved him.  He was great at giving hugs but hated goodbyes.  So we won’t say goodbye… but rather “until we see you again Harry.”

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to give The Wounded Warrior Project. 

Visitation was held at 11:00 am, Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont Chapel. Funeral service followed at 1:00 pm also in the Piedmont Chapel. Pastor Bill Turner ministered to the family. Doug Wheelehon, Cory Thompson, Rick Thompson, Don Osley, Jake Thompson, Brent Wheelehon, Joe Wheelehon and Tim Sheets served as pallbearers. Burial followed at Masonic Cemetery at Piedmont with full military honors provided by the United States Army and American Legion Post 281 of Piedmont, MO. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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