Mary Kay Wheeler

ROCKFORD - Mary Kay Wheeler, age 83, of Rockford passed away peacefully Friday January 7, 2022. Born in Dixon, IL on October 11, 1938 to Elwood Lance & Arlene Marge Heatherington (Frank). Strong, resilient, kind and loving, Mary Kay was the glue that held our family together. Always there for us with a hug and an open ear, she had a contagious laugh that filled our family's hearts with joy for years.

Mary Kay is survived by her loving caregiver & granddaughter, Kelli Wheeler; great grandchildren, Antonio, Jaylan and Tianna; great great grandchildren; Destiny and Leijah; son, Michael Wheeler; and sister; Helen Chirchirillo. As well as numerous Douglas and Heatherington family members. She is predeceased by her daughter, Lori Wheeler; brothers, Keith and John Heatherington; and sister-in-law, Diane Moberg.

Celebration of Life Memorial will be held Saturday June 4, 2022 gathering at 12:30pm at Lions Club Shelter Rock Cut State Park, 7223 W. Lane Road, Caledonia, IL. Cremation rites accorded. Christenson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Memorials to the family.

When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. The angel said my place was ready, in heaven up above and that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly loved. But when I walked through Heaven's Gates I felt so much at home, for God looked down and smiled at me and told me "Welcome Home". So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart, For every time you think of me I'm right there in your heart.

Rest in Peace our dear Mary Kay

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