In Memory of William K. (Buddy) Wheeler

Floor Speech

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Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a special man, William K. (Buddy) Wheeler of Lexington, Kentucky. He passed away on February 8, 2024.

Mr. Wheeler was born in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky. He met his future wife Lucy Clay in grade school. He graduated in 1952 from Mt. Sterling High School. He went on to the University of Kentucky, where he graduated from the College of Pharmacy in 1956. He opened Wheeler Pharmacy in 1958 in the Chevy Chase neighborhood, which was on the outskirts of Lexington at that time. Wheeler Pharmacy is a Lexington landmark, enjoyed by many regular patrons including myself. In addition to the pharmacy, customers enjoy the soda fountain, serving breakfast and lunch and providing a warm neighborhood atmosphere.

Mr. Wheeler was an innovator, implementing a computerized dispensing system, compounding service, and a medication management program and much more. He welcomed pharmacy students for their rotations and served as a mentor to them. Mr. Wheeler sold the pharmacy to his daughter in 2020 but remained an active presence. He was known for his unwavering dedication to his profession and for his kindness to all.

Mr. Wheeler is survived by his wife Lucy. They had been married for nearly 70 years. He also leaves 4 children and their spouses: William Kendall (Tammy) Wheeler, Jr., Stuart (Karen) Wheeler, Margaret (Kevin) Meredith, and Claire (Darrell) Lewis. They are all involved in the family business. He also leaves nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Buddy Wheeler will long be remembered as a kind and caring person, and he will be greatly missed. It was my honor to know him and call him my friend. I am grateful for the opportunity to lift up the life of Buddy Wheeler before the United States Congress.

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