CR Wheeler

Charles Robert "C.R." Wheeler Jr., 72,  husband of Cynthia Strickland Wheeler, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 5, 2025 in Lexington, Ky. Additional survivors include three sons, Christopher Michael Wheeler Bone (Della), Colin Ryne Wheeler (Emily Lowe), Cameron Rey Wheeler; a sister Paula Ann Wheeler Brown (Joseph); a niece Lauren Crank (Jeremy); a nephew Evan Hiatt (Marisa); his mother-in-law Georgiana Strickland; a brother-in-law Neal Strickland; and dearly devoted friends, Tracey Bush and Joe Waldron.

Born December 12, 1952, in Maysville, Kentucky, to the late Charles R. and Elva Mae Browning Wheeler, he was a graduate of Mason County High School. He attended Maysville Community College, studying architecture, and continued on to Pennsylvania State University, where he completed his apprenticeship in fire protection systems.

With his vast knowledge of every facet of the fire sprinkler industry, he mentored many who were new to the field and was greatly respected in his professional life. In 1999, he opened the doors to C&C Fire Sprinkler Systems and Inspections, Inc., building a reputation as a fair and honest businessman.

C.R. was a born leader: a past board chairman of the Players Club Golf Association, a charter member of the Bluegrass Cross Connection Prevention Association, past president of the Maysville Jaycees, and a Kentucky Colonel.

A sportsman by nature, he was an avid golfer, fisherman, bowler, and softball player. He was passionate about riding his motorcycles, greatly enjoying his membership in the Southern Cruisers Riding Club.

Most importantly, C.R. was a loving husband to his wife of 25 years, Cyndi, and a proud father to his children. A believer in a no-nonsense parenting style, yet balanced with great tenderness, he was the one they knew they could always turn to. The family spent many happy times together fishing, camping, attending NASCAR races, and watching Godzilla and sci-fi movies.

He also had a soft spot for animals, becoming enamored with the family dog, Jordyn, who had him wrapped around her little paw. The neighborhood raccoons, opossums, and wild birds also benefited from his kind heart, enjoying many free meals at the Wheeler house.

C.R.’s deadpan sense of humor gave a unique perspective to any situation and earned him many friends during his lifetime. He was a master of surprises, always keeping his family on their toes. His loving and generous heart will be his greatest legacy, and he will be forever missed.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, March 7th at Central Christian Church with visitation beginning at 12:00 P.M.

Please visit the  “In Loving Memory of Charles Robert (C.R) Wheeler Jr.” Facebook page to leave a cherished memory of CR or share a favorite photo.

To honor C.R.’s love of animals, please consider a contribution to Paws 4 the Cause or Enchanted Forest Wildlife Rescue of Kentucky.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of CR Wheeler, please visit our floral store.