Sunday, January 10, 2010

Meet the Wheelers

Dick and LaRae Wheeler are "snowbirds," not one of the species of feathered creatures who survive best in snowy winter conditions, but those of the two legged variety who flee to warmer climates before the white stuff hits the ground! Dick and LaRae spent their youth in the eastern Idaho communities of Ririe (population 545 at the 2000 census) and nearby Shelton. Both graduated from Ririe High School and were married a year later. As a young husband, Dick took an entry level position with the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) facility outside of Idaho Falls, where he worked for 8 years before venturing out on his own to create the family-owned Wheeler Electric based in Idaho Falls, which grew over time to become one of the state’s bigger electrical contracting companies.

Throughout the years, LaRae stayed at home to rear the couple’s six children and now enjoys applauding the successes of their 30 grandchildren and 42 greats! Both are licensed pilots, although LaRae admits, with the responsibilities associated with caring for her large family, she hasn’t had much time in the air. Always active in the church, LaRae has held many positions in the Relief Society and the Young Women’s program, while Dick served five years as a bishop and another eight years on his stake high council.

The Wheelers have enjoyed dividing their time between eastern Idaho and southern Utah. "I don’t mind the cold weather," notes Sister Wheeler, "but Dick wanted to be somewhere warmer so when our two sons took over the company, it seemed like the right time to make the move to St. George. We have been very pleased with the warm welcome we have received from the members of the Bloomington 7th Ward who have made us feel right at home!"

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