Gloria Wheadon

My Life Story Gloria Lea Wheadon, lovingly known as “Grandma Glo,” 84 years old, passed January 23, 2017 at Copper Springs Assisted Living, Meridian, Idaho. Gloria was born July 22, 1932 in Merrill, Oregon, daughter of Ersel and Hazel (Hogan) Newbill. During her childhood, Gloria moved many times, as her father was the Regional Director for Shell Oil. She attended grade school in Astoria, Oregon and High School in Klamath Falls, Oregon. In Klamath Falls she met Pete Wheadon, a handsome young sailor returning home from his tour in the war. He courted her during her senior year under the watchful eye of her father. After Gloria graduated, her father and mother were transferred to Boise, Idaho to open the market for Shell Oil. Leaving her beau behind, they moved and Gloria attended Boise Junior College. It wasn’t long after their move that Pete graduated from Oregon Technical School and he followed Gloria to Boise. Their courtship continued and they were married in 1955 on Valentine’s Day. Together they owned and operated two Shell Service Stations for many years. Gloria worked for CC Andersons for a short time after college until one day a family friend offered her a receptionist position for Idaho Creamery / Meadow Gold Dairies. Her cheerful voice was loved by all. In 1960 they welcomed their daughter Wendy, and though Gloria wanted to continue to work after her maternity leave, she just couldn’t be away from their “ 'lil girl.” Being home was more important, plus she could have all the fishing or hunting gear loaded on Friday when Pete got home! Gloria went back to work for Meadow Gold in 1969 and worked as the Production Account until retirement in 2003. Gloria loved the outdoors. Fishing, hunting, and golfing were a huge part of her life with her family and friends. She rode motorcycles into the backcountry, hiked into high mountain lakes, enjoyed deep sea fishing, snowmobiled across mountains, hunted for big game, and became a late-in-life golfer at 55. Gloria’s husband Pete passed in 1994. Gloria continued to work and enjoy the outdoors - always missing her companion. In 2001, she was introduced to Glen Littler. Glen was the Best Man at his cousin Fred’s wedding; while Gloria was the Matron of Honor for her best friend, Betty. Both having been widowed, they found happiness in each other and were soon traveling, fishing, and golfing together. Their adventures included the Door County Cherry Festival in Wisconsin and becoming Snowbirds in Arizona annually. Glen had five children who became part of her family and will always be Gloria’s kids! They adopted a dog together, Geisha, and found joy in teaching her tricks. Glen passed in 2010. Gloria was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, breast cancer, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma at various stages of her life. Each diagnosis brought challenges, but Gloria smiled through treatments and appointments. Her optimism was inspirational to all who surrounded her; nothing could break her spirit. Gloria is survived by many immediate and extended family members whom she loved as her own including her daughter Wendy and son-in-law Steven Smith; grandchildren: Chelsie and Matt Wilson, Aneta and Mike Sifcak, Chad and Misha Smith, Candi Reid and Jorge Hernandez, Cassy and Ryan Hoover; great grandchildren: Bryson, Kendall, Shyanne, Hazel, and Wyatt; her ”kids”: Jerry and Jody Littler, Les and Margarite Littler, Dori and Andy Ege, Jeff and Mary Littler, Doug and Michelle Littler, and Anthony and Jeana Snider; the entire Littler clan; her faithful cousin, Don Newbill, and the entire Newbill family; her neighbors who kept a loving and watchful eye over her Dennis and Dana McCracken; and her faithful sidekick, Geisha. Gloria’s family would like to extend their sincerest appreciation to the All Care medical personnel who cared for her in her home and the entire staff at Copper Springs Assisted Living. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at Express Café, 400 E. Fairview, Meridian, Idaho from 4 – 6 PM. A Time of Remembrance will begin at 4:30, and dinner will be served at 5. To honor one of her favorite past-times, the family encourages you to wear your favorite Seattle Seahawks or Boise State football gear. Gloria lived a beautiful and fulfilled life, always radiated cheer, and was incredibly proud of all her children, grandchildren, and all of her family members. Grandma Glo will be truly missed, but her passion for life and unbridled enthusiasm will be carried forth by her family.