Rites Friday for Architect Wheeler
San Diego architect Richard George Wheeler, considered a major influence in shaping the cityscape, died Monday after a lengthy illness. He was 72.
Wheeler, the son of an architect and a native of San Diego, was the principal architect for landmark buildings, including the Westgate Plaza Hotel, Fashion Valley Shopping Center East and West, and the San Diego Gas & Electric Co. headquarters.
After working at his father’s firm, Wheeler founded his own company in 1947. In 1980, it became Wheeler Wimer Architects and had gained a reputation for pioneering new designs.
“An era in San Diego architecture has ended,” said W. Gayne Wimer, a longtime partner and friend, in a prepared statement. “He was one of the last great warriors who helped usher in the transformation of San Diego architecture.”
Wheeler, who graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with an architectural degree, served in the Navy during World War II.
Wheeler is survived by his wife of 28 years, Gerry, and children Jim, Rick, Brien, Wendy and Cynthia. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Point Loma Community Presbyterian Church. The family suggests donations to the University of California, San Diego Foundation School of Architecture, UCSD S-040, La Jolla CA 92093.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
