1938-2010 - Gary David Wheeler, Moncton, died May 2nd, after a lengthy illness borne with great dignity. Born in Moncton, N.B. on July 3rd, 1938, the son of Harold F. Wheeler and Vera (Trites) Wheeler, he was raised by his beloved grandmother, Sarah Eddington Wheeler. He received his early education at Moncton High School (1956). He entered Mount Allison University to study pre-Engineering in 1958. In 1963 he received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at the University of New Brunswick. It was during his university years that he met, and later married, the love of his life and partner of 47 years, Linda Barrie Matthews and settled in Moncton. Few could rival his intimate knowledge of his beloved city and province. As a high school and university student, Gary worked for the Moncton Public Works building and maintaining many of its streets and sidewalks. Upon graduation, he joined the Engineering Department and later became Deputy City Engineer. In 1968 he joined Frizzell Bros. Construction as their Chief Engineer and General Manager and was instrumental in designing and building many of Moncton's roadways. In 1971 he entered municipal politics and served as City Councillor for Ward 2 until he was elected Mayor in 1974. A natural politician, Gary was known for his strong convictions and ability to relate to people. Much of Moncton's continued growth and development can be attributed to his early vision for the City. He was also active in many community organizations, serving as a Director of the Moncton Family YMCA, a Director of the Greater Moncton Chamber of Commerce, President of the Moncton Rotary Club, Founding Member and Chairman of the New Brunswick Hawks (AHL), member of the Luxor Shrine, Campaign Chairman of the United Way, and Director and Trustee of the Moncton City Hospital. He was also a member of the Engineering Institute of Canada and a Life Member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of New Brunswick. His passions were hockey (the Habs), baseball (the Yankees), snowmobiling, cards, and most of all, his family. Hero to his four daughters, he will be forever missed by Christa (Mark Thorne), Moncton; Tracey (Kirk Rowe), Montreal; Cynthia (Andrew Ingham), Halifax; and Susan, Toronto. His wit, intelligence, tenacity and strong sense of family live on in his ten grandchildren: Jordan, Zachary, Erin and Tyler Thorne; Megan, Sophie and Ava Rowe; and Ryan, Alexander and Harrison Ingham. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Gail Matthews, Halifax; brothers Ron (Mary) Wheeler, Aiken, South Carolina, Harold Wheeler, Winnipeg; sister Dawn (Bob) Westhaver; and cousin Paul Murphy, Moncton. Visitation will take place at Fair Haven Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 5th, 2010 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. A funeral service to be held at St. John's United Church, 75 Alma Street, Moncton on Thursday, May 6th 2010, at 2:00 pm, Reverend Aaron Billard presiding. A reception will follow the service in the church hall. Interment in Fairhaven Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be made to Friends of the Moncton Hospital or the charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements entrusted to Fair Haven Funeral Home, 1177 Salisbury Road, Moncton (506) 852-3530. A book of condolences can be signed at www.fairhavenmemorial.ca