Danny Lee Wheeler

Danny Lee Wheeler, 78, of Seminole, passed away Friday, January 23, 2026, in Seminole.

Danny was born February 23, 1947, in Oklahoma City to Bill and Mary (Crouch) Wheeler. He graduated from Crooked Oak High School with the Class of 1965. In January of 1966, Danny enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War.

After returning home, Danny began a career at Tinker Air Force Base, where he worked for 30 years before retiring. On September 13, 2015, he married Gloria Henry in Seminole.

Danny was known for his love of yard work, which went far beyond mowing. He especially enjoyed decorating his yard for the holidays, making it a true reflection of his joyful spirit. During Christmas of 2020, at the height of the COVID pandemic, Danny dressed as Santa Claus and sat in his driveway so children—unable to visit Santa at the mall—could still experience the magic of Christmas. Cars lined the street to see him. After word spread, local schools invited Danny to serve as Santa for “Breakfast with Santa” events.

Danny was also a devoted animal lover. He leaves behind two beloved dogs, Bella and Murphy. While living in Midwest City, his love of animals extended even further—he built and maintained a backyard turtle habitat that grew into a thriving community of dozens of turtles, which he faithfully fed and cared for.

A passion more than a hobby, Danny dedicated himself to martial arts, ultimately earning a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo—an achievement that reflected his discipline, perseverance, and strength.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Mary Wheeler; his first wife, Carla; his son, David; and his sister, Billie.

Danny is survived by his wife, Gloria Wheeler, of the home; daughters and sons-in-law, Deanne and Mike Debter of Seminole, and Jennifer and Travis Caresia, of Choctaw; son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Dana Wood of Claremore; grandchildren, Alexa Newton and Cody McDonald, Carson Newton and Zoe Wilson, Alex Wood, Olivia Wood, Abbie Caresia, Tyler Caresia, Ashton Wheeler, and Darian Wheeler; two great-grandchildren, Saylor and Cooper Newton; along with many other loving family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole. Services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole.