St. George, UT- Dr. James Herbert Wheeler, 96, passed away on June 11, 2012. Herb was born in Lewiston, Utah, on January 31, 1916, to Lester George Wheeler and Ruby May Hodges. Herb married Venus Merrill of Preston, Idaho in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple on August 27, 1940.

Growing up on the family farm, Herb developed a love for animals and learned the value of hard work. He served a mission for the LDS Church in the Central States Mission after graduating from North Cache High School. Herb attended Utah State University and North Pacific College of Dentistry, leaving behind the farm and establishing a career as a dentist first in Lewiston, Utah then in Salt Lake City. After dental school Herb served in the Army as a 1 ^st Lieutenant during World War II until receiving a medical discharge in 1944. He loved automobiles and driving with Venus throughout the United States visiting family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Venus (Merrill), sister Carma (Warren) Hamp, children: George (Bonnie), Robert (Cathie), Stephen (Terry), Mike (Annette), Peggy, Karen and David (Anna). He was preceded in death by his daughters: JoEllen (Ray) and Janet (Craig).

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 16 ^th at 11:00 a.m. at the St. George LDS 8 ^th Ward Chapel, 166 South Main Street, St. George, UT. A visitation will be held from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services at the chapel. Interment will be in the New Harmony Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221.