Obituary of Patricia A. Wheeler

ALBANY Patricia A. (Mucci) Wheeler passed away November 8, 2021, at her home in Albany, NY. She was born in Poughkeepsie, NY, to the late Patrick C. and Mary R. (McCormack) Mucci. Patricia attended Vincentian Institute and in 1962 graduated Cum Laude from the College of St. Rose; she was the winner of the college’s philosophy award. She received her Master’s Degree from the State University of New York at Albany. Patricia first taught mathematics at Shaker High School. She retired from Hudson Valley Community College where she was an adjunct professor in the Mathematics Department. Patricia also was an Editor of publications at the NYS Education Department. Patricia is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Ronald G.; children, Douglas (Laura) of St. Petersburg, FL, Ann Gochee (Harry) of Delmar, NY, Susan of Albany, NY, and Andrew (Rose Pugliese) of Albany, NY. She also is survived by her grandchildren, Delaney, Caitlin, Clare and Owen Wheeler, Harry and Benjamin Gochee, Hannah Wheeler and Augusten Wheeler. She also is survived by her sister Ann Simpson-McDowell (Russell) and sister-in-law Carole Wheeler as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Robert Mucci. She was in love with the sandy beaches of St. Augustine, FL, where on more than one occasion she was knocked down by an unexpected wave to be lifted back to her feet by Ron as she laughed with sheer joy. Patricia was a devoted mother and loved her family. She enjoyed the holidays with her children and grandchildren. Nothing brought more joy to her than having her family gathered around her for a game night. She had many friends and loved her Brunch Club meetings. Her fondest memory was the celebration of her and Ron’s 50th wedding anniversary at Colonial Williamsburg, VA, with all of her children and grandchildren gathered about her. Our North Star is gone, but the memory of her unfailing love, strength and wisdom remains with her family to guide them. Patricia’s funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 12, 2021 at the Parish of Mater Christi, 40 Hopewell St., Albany. Friends may call at the church from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., prior to the mass. Burial will be in St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands. In lieu of flowers, we are requesting donations to the American Cancer Society, 3380 Chastain Meadows Pkwy NW, Suite 200, Kennesaw, GA 30144 ; St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231.