Merton Lyndon Wheeler

ORONO - Merton L. "Mert" Wheeler, 96, passed onto Heaven to be reunited with his beloved wife, Gloria, March 14, 2026, at Maine Veterans' Home, Bangor. He was born January 16, 1930, in Hampden, the son of Earl and Ethel (Brigham) Wheeler.

Merton grew up in Hampden, graduating from Hampden Academy. He then, attended Husson College, where he first met the love of his life, Gloria Smith, in a chance meeting at the bus stop, on the way to school. Their lives would blossom since that fateful encounter into a beautiful life together.

Those who knew Mert and Gloria will fondly remember the simple, beautiful rhythms of their lives. Whether it was their annual tradition of planting roses or their daily walks at the Old Town YMCA, they were a constant, welcoming presence in the community. Their days were punctuated by the joy of family: cake celebrations for birthdays and anniversaries, and frequent trips to Governor's in Old Town to share a meal with special friends.

For decades, their autumn trips to Southwest Harbor were a well-known highlight of their year, where they were embraced by the kindness of the local people. Every outing was an opportunity for them to turn neighbors into friends. After 71 years of marriage, it was impossible to imagine one without the other-a bond that surely continues as they enter their eternal home together.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Gloria, Mert was predeceased by his brother, Harry Wheeler. Surviving, are his son, Richard "Rick" Wheeler and his wife, Chris and grandsons, Ben Wheeler and Matt Denbow.

Whether it was family time with Gloria, Ben's games over the years, or the holiday meals Matt cooked for Mert after Gloria passed away, the family stayed close, building a treasury of stories for the generations to come.

The family would like to extend a heart-felt thank you to the staff of Maine Veterans' Home for their extraordinary care and compassion in Mert's final days.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor. All are invited to share conversation and refreshments at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center St., Bangor, immediately following the service. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Orono, following the reception. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.