Pamela Jane Wheeler, 75, passed away on July 13, 2025, at Hospice House in Hutchinson, KS. Pam was born on May 5, 1950, in Hutchinson, the daughter of Lawrence and Dorothy (Ellis) Burgess.
Pam graduated from Hutchinson High School and got her degree in business at Sterling College. On April 25, 1968, Pam married her high school sweetheart, Charles Wheeler. Together Pam and Charlie were never shy, with starting new adventures and businesses. Soon after marriage they opened their first business, a specialty cigar shop. Pam earned her real-estate license and started a many decades long career in home sales. She also enjoyed traveling, so she started a career as a travel agent. Pam’s parents built and ran the R-B Drive In for 35 years. When her parents decided to retire, Pam and Charlie bought the Drive In from her parents and then owned it for another 35 years. During all this time of helping her husband to manage the restaurant, Pam sold real estate and continued as a travel agent.
Pam never slowed down, she loved to travel. Pam and Charlie enjoyed going to Vegas and having fun at casinos. They also enjoyed going on cruises to the Caribbean and other exotic places. They traveled the globe. Pam had a well accomplished life.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Bradley Burgess and Dudley Burgess.
She is survived by her husband, Charles Wheeler; son, Chuck (Erin) Wheeler and two grandchildren, Jolee and Vincent Wheeler, all of Hutchinson; and her two precious puppy girls, Lizzy and MiTi.
Per Pam’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Friends may sign her book Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 – 4:30 p.m. at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hutchinson Animal Shelter and can be sent in care of the funeral chapel.