Robert "Pete" Wheeler Sr

"See you later, alligator."

Robert “Pete” Wheeler Sr.

April 16, 1937 – September 20, 2025

Robert “Pete” Wheeler Sr., 88, a lifelong Santa Fe resident and proud U.S. Marine,

passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025. A devoted husband, father,

grandfather, and great-grandfather, Pete was known for his deep faith, strong work

ethic, and sense of humor.

He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956 to 1962 as an aviation mechanic and

later worked as a custodian with Santa Fe Public Schools, where he was cherished by

both students and staff. He also co-owned a successful plaster and stucco business

with Felix Romero.

A devout Catholic, Pete was a faithful member of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of

Assisi.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, dancing, traveling, and spending time with his

family.

He is survived by his children: Jesse (Annette), Robert (Mary), Tony, and Manny, along

with their families. He was preceded in death by his children Mike, Cindy, and Beverly,

as well as his brothers Arthur, Dan, Joe, and Charlie.

Services

Rosary: Thursday, October 16, at 10:30 a.m.

Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Burial with Military Honors: 1:00 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery