Obituary of David Scott Wheeler

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Scott Wheeler. Born August 15, 1963, Scott found peace on February 21, 2024 at the age of 60, after a long, bravely fought battle with a complex, progressive autoimmune disorder as a result of injury from the Covid-19 vaccines. Scott was a true warrior until the very end. His perseverance, strength and determination were a testament to who he was. His courage and tireless efforts to understand the nature of his condition inspired others, and he was committed to documenting and sharing his story, providing a guide for those suffering with chronic conditions.

            He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 36 years Sue (née Hribar), his cherished daughters Erika (Rob) and April (Dylan), and grandchildren Grayson and Briar. Predeceased by his parents Wilf and Joan and mother-in-law Eileen. Survived by sisters Patti (Jim), Carri (Marshall), Laura (David), brother Mark, father-in-law Thomas, brother-in-law Wayne (Wendy), sister-in-law Karen (Bob) Aunt Mabel, nieces, nephews cousins, and many more family, wonderful friends, and colleagues.

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            Scott was born in St. Catharines, Ontario to a large and loving family. The youngest of five, he excelled in academics throughout his school years. He received the highest honours in grade 13 city-wide and obtained his degree in chemical engineering at the University of Waterloo in 1987. He received his Masters of Business degree from York University in 1998 while working full-time with two young children at home. His uncanny intelligence and passion for excellence was demonstrated throughout his career. He spent 33 years working for Woodbridge Foam, a proudly Canadian polyurethane manufacturing company in the automotive industry. He held many positions including Development Engineer, Plant Manager and Technical Director. Scott’s career culminated in his invaluable contributions leading a small team through the design and mass production of the first masks made in Ontario during the Covid-19 pandemic. After a lengthy and successful career which he was immensely proud of, Scott retired on September 30, 2020.

            Scott was a natural strategist with a passion for games. He was known to outwit opponents, aided by his competitive nature. He created games for a multitude of family and friend events, which, coupled with his quirky sense of humour, always drew a great deal of laughter.

A life-long learner, always challenging himself to reach higher and farther, he could solve practically any problem presented to him. His engineering prowess allowed him to find creative solutions for numerous personal projects, such as renovating his home, and for helping others through the years. He enjoyed learning new things and sharing his knowledge with others, with a particular interest in science, world history and languages. He was considered the most brilliant man by many who knew him.

Scott was athletic, with a special passion for hockey, which he enjoyed playing throughout his life on various leagues. A die-hard Boston Bruins fan, he instilled the love of hockey and his team in his children and grandchildren. Countless fond memories are shared with his family of friendly rivalry between which team was better, Boston Bruins or Montreal Canadiens.

He was also an avid runner, participating in marathons in Ottawa, and enjoyed skiing, and playing golf. His life was filled with music, sharing in good times with friends and family to the sounds of Rush, Triumph, Max Webster, and much of the classic rock genre.

His career afforded him the ability to travel around the world, visiting most of the continents. He shared his love of travel with his family through memorable vacations across Canada and Europe.

            Thoughtful, warm-hearted, kind, and joyful, Scott was, above all else, completely devoted to his family and friends. He treasured time spent with them and extended his love and care to those around him. He was a truly selfless man.

            Scott’s family wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his battle with his complex condition, especially during his final days. Special thanks to the alternative functional medicine practitioners who were dedicated in trying to help Scott when our medical system failed him. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, funeral arrangements have been entrusted with George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, February 28 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, with a short service to follow. Scott has been cremated. A Celebration of Life will take place at Amici’s Banquet Centre, 2740 Merrittville Hwy, Fonthill from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM. All are welcome to attend both events.

Donations in Scott’s honour can be made to HEROS Hockey, an organization which empowers marginalized youth through free hockey programs to teach life-skills, sport training and educational development.

            A man who held high places, reflected in his life a work of art, left us with his legacy, always closest to the heart.

• Adapted from “Closer to the Heart” by Rush

If you are unable to attend Scott's Final Tribute you may still join us using this link https://camstreamer.com/redirect/vWq9Ad85zRsnyFigqyp1heT6UCFDWXoXLpQmWVSO