Brian Wheatland

  Brian “Wheat” Wheatland, 81, of Streator passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at O.S.F. St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, Illinois.

  Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, February 5, 2022 at Grace Community Church in Streator.

  Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. Saturday, February 5, 2022 at the church.

  Private family burial will be in New Jerusalem Cemetery, Streator.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

  Born February 19, 1940 in Streator, he was the son of Roger and Jeanne (Mehock) Wheatland. 

  He is survived by daughters, Kelly (Jerry) Stiles of Streator and Lynne (Alex) Boehmke of Streator; a son, Sean (Tanya) Wheatland of Sarasota, Florida; grandchildren, Bailey Wheatland of Streator, Jerry Stiles III of Streator and Carson Stiles of Streator; a brother, Alan (Marla) Wheatland of Bensenville; several nieces and nephews survive.

  He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Mary Wheatland.

  Born and raised in Streator, he attended St. Mary’s Grade School and Streator High School. He later attended Northern Illinois University.

  While in high school he was heavily involved in activities.  He participated in football, track, glee club, student council, “Y” clubs, hub council, Latin club and “S” club.  In most of the clubs he was president or vice president during his tenure.

  In 1957, Brian set three Streator High School track records.  These included the 80 yard dash which won him the North Central Championship, the 880 yard run which won him the IV District Title and the Mile Relay.  In 1958 he participated on the Northern Illinois Cross Country team that won the NCAA title.  He was inducted into the schools Hall of Fame in 2001.  From 2007-2010 he coached the Rhema Christian Academy Track Team.

  He worked through the years for Owens Illinois Glass Company.  He also worked in various other positions including car and insurance sales.

  He was the first worship leader at the Rhema Outreach, which is now known as Grace Community Church.  He was ordained into ministry on June 7, 1997.

  He was a contributor to Engle Lane and looked forward to each new season.  He also loved to sing with family and attend concerts.

  Brian donated and supported dozens of charities.  He was always willing to help those in need.  He had a servant’s heart and his passion was sharing his love for God.

  Brian would want to acknowledge a few beloved family members and friends that had a special place in his heart.  They include, Susan Wheatland-Justice, Kenneth Krause, Sharon Giacinto and the late Chuck Giacinto. 

  Brian loved his family with all his heart and was extremely proud of the achievements of his grandchildren.  Brian was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by many.

  Memorials may be directed to the Grace Community Church, Streator.

  Online condolences and remembrances may be shared with the family at www.solontelford.com.

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