Myron "Tony" Wheeler

Myron Tony Wheeler, 69, of Power, a retired farmer and US Air Force North Africa veteran, died of natural causes on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at his home near Power.A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel with military honors.A reception will follow at Schnider Funeral Home.All who knew Tony are invited to attend. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Schnider Funeral Home.Myron A. Tony Wheeler was born on February 1, 1943 in Bozeman, Montana to Myron and Olive (Sallee) Wheeler. He was raised in Manhattan, MT.He graduated from Montana State University in Bozeman with a degree in Fish and Wildlife Management.He financed his education through the ROTC program and working for the Fish and Game.Tony was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant upon graduation.He served as a supply officer at Travis AFB in California and in North Africa. Tony met Wilma Grossman while in College and they were married in 1966.They were blessed to celebrate 46 years of marriage last year.Tony loved the outdoors and his love for his wife prompted him to return to Power to learn how to farm after the death of her father.He stayed on the farm for 45 years, learning to farm and ranch. He retired after breaking his leg during calving a few years ago.Tony served on the School Board in Power and was a Teton County Commissioner for one term during the snow years of the 70s.He met people through the NFO, the Toy Club and the Weapons Collectors Club.He enjoyed the toy shows, antique shows, swap meets, and especially auctions.Tony loved to go to auctions, looking for Montana history of any kind, and for bargains. He loved to haggle and to trade and especially to visit with everyone.He was always searching, whether for a Montana book or for archeological artifacts.He participated in a number of digs throughout Montana.He knew people all over the state. Tony will be best remembered as the real Santa at the mall for the last 16 years.He loved making the children and their parents happy.He had a way of talking to the children that thrilled them and emphasized that they should give to others. Tony is survived by his wife, Wilma (Grossman) Wheeler of Power; daughter Michelle (Curtis) Christianson of Helena; grandson Cord Christianson; brother Terry (Sandy) Wheeler of Kalispell; Terrys daughter, Kaylene Hinderliter and her son, Paul of Shoreline, WA; aunt Mary Sallee of Stockton, MO; numerous cousins; and nieces and a nephew on his wifes side.He was preceded in death by his parents, Myron and Olive (Sallee) Wheeler.Memorials in Tonys name may be sent to the Rescue Mission, 326 2nd Ave. So., Great Falls, MT 59405 or a charity of the donors choice.Condolences may be sent to www.schniderfuneralhome.com