Herman Wheelbarger

HERMAN WILSON ?SLIM? WHEELBARGER, 91, died at 8:57 p.m. November 7, 2006, at the Lima Convalescent Home following an extended struggle with his health. He was born August 14, 1915, in Lima, Ohio to Harvey and rosa Strohm Wheelbarger, who preceded him in death. On July 4, 1941, he married Velma Elayne Sterrett, who died April 24, 2003. They had been married for more than 60 years. Mr. Wheelbarger had worked in the aerospace division of Westinghouse Electric Corp. for more than 30 years. He had been a member of the Lima Camera Club. He had been a photographer for the Shawnee Police Department. He photographed and printed several weddings and photographed Shawnee High School basketball games in the 1960?s. he was a member of the Masonic Lodge for more than 50 years. He was a graduate of Lima South High School. He was an army veteran, serving during World War II at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, from August 1, 1943, to August 1, 1946. He was a loving and loyal husband, who was a strong, positive influence in the lives of his daughter, granddaughter and grat grandchildren. He enjoyed working with motors and solving mechanical and electrical problems. He wa an avid gardener and his roadside vegetable stand was appreciated by many people, and he cooked, baked and canned many of the creations from his garden and fruit trees. He was a beekeeper for several years. He was close to his friends and neighbors. He was a kind and generous friend, a helper to anyone in need and a beloved neighbor and friend. Survivors include tow daughters, Lynda Tribolet, of Lima, Ohio and Susan (John) McCain, of Cridersville, Ohio; a granddaughter, Traci Oaks, of Cairo, Ohio; two grandchildren, Rachael Oaks and Ryan Oaks; John (Jay) McBride, who was like an adoptive son since he lost his father when he was 17 years old; a friend, Erv White; and neighbors, Paul Clemens and Cory Ley. He was preceded in death by a sister, Virginia Burden; and friend, Early Lawson. Services will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Paul Lee Clemens will officiate. Interment will be in the Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association/Ohio West, 226 State Route 61, Norwalk, Ohio 44857; the Kidney Foundation; or the United Cerebral Pasly Research & Education Foundation. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com The family would like to express their appreciation to the caring staff at the Lima Convalescent Home.