Wheeler Family's Journey to Healing

Early on the morning of Wednesday, March 5, 2025, the Fitzgerald-Wheeler family suffered a devastating loss when Ryan Wheeler passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.

7 kids ranging in age from 21 to just 2 years old lost their father: Grace, Gabe, Charlie, Liam, Waylon, and two bonus children, Ava and Jude. My sweet daughter, Kristen, lost her life partner. The unfortunate circumstances were such that one of the children found Ryan's body. Our brave, strong, quick-thinking boy immediately told his sister to call 911 while he alerted his mother and tried to help her with getting Ryan into position for her to perform CPR. Two more of the youngest children came out of their rooms to see what was happening and watched their mother trying desperately to revive their father.

It is a heart-wrenching situation. These sweet babies are going to need so much help making sense of what they witnessed and navigating life without their dad. Grief counseling and ongoing mental health support are top priorities to Kristen for their children, alongside final expenses and providing for their immediate needs to keep the household running while Kristen brushes up her resume and begins her job hunt. Kristen left corporate America 2 years ago to be a full-time mom while Ryan was the sole provider.

We very much hope to be able to start a trust at some point in the very near future to provide for the educations of all 7 of their children. One of Ryan's greatest hopes for his children was that they all be able to pursue higher education.

Please keep this beautiful family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. If you feel moved to donate financially, please know that any amount is appreciated. Words of support and encouragement are always welcome and appreciated.

On behalf of my daughter and my grandbabies, I want to thank everyone who has called, texted, stopped by, stepped up and pitched in to help. The outpouring of love and concern has been humbling. Thank you all.