The Officers, Board of Trustees, and membership of the Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department sadly mark the passing of member Preston H. Wheeler.

Preston H. Wheeler, 85, died August 4th at Kline Hospice House in Mt. Airy, Maryland after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends. Preston was born on August 12, 1929, in Washington, DC. At a young age, he was a member of the United States Merchant Marines. Preston was "adopted" by the Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department (SSVFD) Station 19, which he credits with saving his life. He spent several decades at SSVFD and was retired from the DC Fire Department assigned to Rescue Squad 2.

Preston mentored and trained firefighters throughout his career as a fireman. He was later a driver for Union Pacific Railroad, Bank of America, and a bus driver for Montgomery County Public Schools. Preston's sense of humor and straightforward approach to life was well known amongst his family and friends. He always maintained an upbeat attitude and comforted his loved ones through tough times with his, "it is what it is" approach.

Preston is survived by his loving wife Diane; and his children Gary (Joanne), Chad (Michael Yesenko) and Michael (Jennifer) Wheeler; Shelly McComas Harlow and Lisa Witcher (Bill). He is also survived by grandchildren Christa Otterbein (Adam); Perry (Jess), Brady, and Colin Wheeler; Jennie and Tommy Witcher; Matt McComas (Amy) and Ben Harlow; Riley, Jacob, Paige, and Wally Wheeler; great-grandchildren Jackson and Mayla. He is also survived by Dusty, his beloved West Highland Terrier.

A memorial service will be held on September 13th at 3:00pm at The Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department, Station 19. In lieu of flowers please visit www.firehero.org/donate/ and make a donation of your choice in the name of Preston Wheeler.