John Alan Wheatland

In typical “Al Wheatland” style, he would invite the whole family over to celebrate an occasion or just a Saturday! He'd make his famous steak marinade and cook on the grill. In winter it was Jacques Coquille, Fried Cheese and Tomatoes (a Wheatland original) or his marinara. Alan could cook! And taught his kids how to get it all on the table hot!

Then, after dinner, he would say—and I quote—"Let's play a game and I'll put everybody in!" For the 65 years we've been married, this was the way it was: FAMILY, FOOD, MUSIC, GAMES, TOGETHERNESS, DOGS, and LAUGHTER. Always laughter!

And golf. He taught Marla (wife) and all 5 children to golf in the early years. Took them to the club (OPCC) or a nearby course, or even St. Andrews, Scotland. Wherever they were, we had at least 6 foursomes.

Children:

 Son, Paul, and spouse Tammy Harmon

 Son, Jon, and spouse Suzy Wheatland

 Daughter, Deanna, and spouse Mike Munro

 Daughter, Lisa, and spouse Robert Kirby

 Son, Tyler, and spouse Dawn Wheatland

As the Wheatland clan expanded, so did the gatherings and school and sports events. Alan's inspiration and encouragement helped the grandchildren in all their interests and achievements. He was an avid fan, taught golf etiquette and honor in the way you play.

Grandchildren:

 Matthew and spouse Ashly Wheatland

 Brian Wheatland and Heidi Alten

 Taylor and spouse Arianna Wheatland

 Frank Wheatland and fiancée Maddy Lacek

 Alexandra Wheatland

 Spencer Wheatland

 Emma Wheatland

 Gwendolyn Wheatland

Great Grands:

Matt's children: Sierra and Logan Wheatland

Taylor's son: Tate Alan Wheatland

Retired 20 years from running his own company, Employee Security Plans, Inc. Al hasbeen enjoying some travel, going to family events, and recently taking it easy, playing Canasta with coffee in the morning and walking with Marla, wife of 65 years.

Recently, armchair travel has been a highlight, revisiting places in America and Europe we've been before on youtube.

Accolades

His achievements in grade school were largely sports and his American Legion Citizenship Award. In high school, as a Streator Bulldog he loved sports again and went to State in four of them.

In college, he was on the Illini team that went to the Rose Bowl in 1964 and won the Big Ten Championship in 1963 to get there. He was named the "Spirit of the Team."

He also lettered in golf at the University of Illinois. And later in life he had several accolades in this sport, including two-time OPCC Club Champion in ‘73 and ‘75 andplaced third in a national long drive contest in ‘75.

In insurance, he was a member of the Million-Dollar round table.

A 12-year member of the Men of Spirito, with son, Jon, and granddaughter, Alex, hesang his heart out in church performances, at events like the Elmhurst Turkey Trot, in Chicago stadiums preceding games and memorials in remembrance of loved ones.

His best achievement was the head of a wonderful and loving family. He loved God, heloved to go to Mass, he loved his family, he loved work, and he always helped anyone who asked for help. He loved togetherness and would always say “When are we gettingtogether?”

In a word, Al Wheatland was LOVE

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL