Alice Perez Wheeler

Alice Perez Wheeler, age 95, passed peacefully, surrounded by family, Nov. 18, 2022. She was born Dec. 12, 1926, to Emilio and Otilia Perez, immigrants who settled in the small Spanish community of Spelter, WV. As a child, she was known to share her love of learning with her friends. She graduated from Victory HS and Fairmont State University.

After college, she moved with her mother to Canton, OH, where Alice began teaching. She married John Wheeler in 1951. During her 65 years of marriage, she settled in Massillon, raised a family, taught Spanish at Jackson HS, and retired to spend time in Florida.

Alice believed everyone should know a little Spanish and savor the wonderful flavors of Spain. Her love of culture enhanced many lives. She sponsored student exchange programs, led trips to Mexico and Spain, and shared her traditional Spanish dishes, including Christmas paella and brazo gitano cake.

Alice lived a life of dedication to family, friends, church, teaching, and community. She helped others whether it was organizing blood drives, translating correspondence, volunteering at the Hardee Help Center, tutoring, or helping those in need. By giving so wholeheartedly, she led a full and meaningful life.

Her greatest love was her family. Proceeded in death by her parents, beloved husband, and infant son, she is survived by her son Michael, daughter Deanna (Mike Ziebell), and two dear granddaughters, Zoë and Calla.

Celebration of Life will occur on Dec. 30 with a service at 10:30 at Paquelet Funeral Home followed by interment at Calvary and lunch at Taggarts. Memorial contributions: Hardee Help Center, 713 E. Bay, Wauchula, FL 33873

dwheeler1926@gmail.com