Obituary - Daniel Stuart Wheeler

Daniel Stuart Wheeler, affectionately known as Danny, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the age of 65, surrounded by loved ones.

A former resident of Chesterfield County, and current resident of Henrico County, Danny was known for his kindness, his many interests, and love of family and community. His presence will be missed by all who knew him.

Born September 15, 1959, Danny was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He worked for many years as a Rural Letter Carrier with the United States Postal Service, forming lasting connections with coworkers and the residents along his route. His friendly demeanor, reliability, and strong work ethic made him a familiar and well-loved figure in the neighborhood. As all good postmen and women, he knocked twice, and took impeccable care of those along his mail route.

Danny was the type of person who could strike up a conversation with a stranger, and walk away with a new friend. He made these connections, for example, as he pursued his passion for trains and railfanning. He loved to share this passion with his wife, Kim, who shared his love for excursion trips, dome cars, and restored Pullman cars from days gone by. He was particularly enthralled by steam locomotives, where each engine had its own “breath” of personality, and the sound of its whistle, unique.

He loved everything about Rocketry, from building model rockets to watching real ones take flight, having built several hundred model rockets, then launching many of them as a member of the local Vikings Rocket Society.

Of all Danny’s many and varied interests, playing music was one of his most favorite pursuits. His musical journey was inspired by his maternal grandmother, who was a pianist and violinist. Danny began playing piano at age 8, winning several awards. Major inspiration, however, came from great bands of the late 60s and early 70s, such as Cream, causing him to switch his main instrument to bass guitar. He was mentored by Ben Stabley Jr.,  in the Lion’s Club Band, where they put on an annual variety show to benefit Lighthouse of the Blind. In Danny’s high school years, the 17th Street Band formed, and they played together as a group for several years after high school. He continued sharing his talent with Chesterfield Community Church, Spectrum Band, and Offering Band, where he ultimately met the love of his life, Kim, though love was to blossom between them several years later. Many fellow bandmates will miss him for his driving rhythm section playing, and miss the warmth of his personality and antics.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Kathryn and Bertrem;  and his brother, David. He is survived by his wife, Kim; daughters Jessi (Brad) and Lindsey; grandson Levi; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins who loved him.

Family and friends are invited to gather in his memory for a celebration of Danny’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Affinity Funeral Service – Richmond Chapel, 2720 Enterprise Parkway, Henrico, VA . Family and friends are invited to gather in his memory.

Click here to view the live-streamed funeral service for Daniel S. Wheeler.

Directly following the celebration of life service, there will be a wake from 4 to 6 pm at Art Works, 320 Hull St. Richmond, Virginia. Art Works holds special significance as a place where Danny and Kim shared their musical talents as part of 4th Fridays with Offering Band. Please come share your stories and continue the celebration of our beloved Danny!

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of one’s choice.  Finally, Danny’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his music and spirit will continue to echo into the lives he touched. Forever, my love.