ONEONTA – George C. "Wheels" Wheeler, 52, lost his battle after a long illness on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at home.

He was born February 13, 1960 in Oneonta, the son of Francis and Eleanor (Upright) Wheeler.

Wheels worked as a cook for many local restaurants and organization, most recently at SUNY Oneonta, where he had to leave because of his health.

His biggest passions were rooting for the Yankees and being a DJ. He enjoyed playing at the annual Christmas party for ARC, which he did for many years. He loved music. He also was an avid sportsman and NASCAR fan. He was the president of his family's NASCAR fantasy league, Wheels Racing League. Above all the rest, his biggest love was his granddaughters, they were his life.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; his son, Barry and wife, Bonnie and their daughter, Bayli, his son, Bryan, and his son, Brandon and wife, Leslie and their daughters, Laila and Jaiden; his mother, Eleanor Wheeler; his brother, Bruce and wife, Linda, his sister, Susan and husband, Steve Montemurro, his sister, Connie and husband, Bob Kisner, his brother, Bob and wife, Marie; many loving nieces and nephews, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins and good friends.

He was predeceased by his father and a brother, Michael.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 11, 2012 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, Oneonta. The memorial service with military honors will be at 7 p.m., with the Rev. Keith VanDewerker, officiating. As Wheels would want, please dress casually.

In lieu of flowers, a trust account will be set up for his granddaughters. For more information contact the funeral home or a family member.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at, www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the guidance of the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta.