UP FRONT It’s Named After
By Lisa Kimble
The Florence R. Wheeler Cancer Center at Mercy’s downtown hospital has played a significant role in the lives of many, most of whom probably never met the radiation oncology facility’s namesake. Born in Bakersfield in 1929, Florence Reid Wheeler graduated from East Bakersfield High School in 1946 and attended Bakersfield College and San Jose State College. When Florence moved home in 1959 she became reacquainted with East High classmate William A. Wheeler. They married the following year, and in 1964 their daughter, Nancy, was born. The family’s fortune was built on Bill’s innovative and pioneering developments in the oil field waste disposal industry, and later in residential development in California and Nevada. Their company, Petroleum Waste, was eventually sold to International Technology Corp. Florence, who was fond of playing bridge and enjoyed family outings to Bass Lake, felt strongly about giving back to the community that had been so generous to them. The couple contributed to many local charities, including the Junior League, as well as schools like Bakersfield College and East High School, and routinely in quiet ways without recognition. In 1989, the Wheelers formed the Wheeler Foundation, which made community contributions in the areas of health, education and child welfare.
Photo by Casey Christie
Florence R. Wheeler Cancer Center
In 1992, the Florence R. Wheeler Cancer Center was established. More than a million dollars has been given to the facility since it opened its doors, and it was a source of great pride for Florence. In 2002, Florence lost her own battle with cancer at age 73. Her daughter and son-in-law remain active in the community Florence and Bill Wheeler loved and enjoyed.
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