Help Support Donnie Wheeler's Family and Memorial Costs

Hi, my name is Rebecca Foles (Monica Nitz's sister), and I’m organizing this fundraiser on behalf of the mother of Donnie Wheeler.

I’m creating this GoFundMe to support his mother, Kim Wheeler, during this incredibly difficult time. The goal is to help with celebration of life expenses and ensure he is honored in a way that reflects the love and light he brought to those around him.

Thank you for any support you’re able to give — every donation and share means so much.

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It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Donnie Vincent Wheeler, who left us on April 6, 2025, at the age of 39. Born in French Camp, California, Donnie brought laughter, connection, and music into the lives of everyone lucky enough to know him.

Donnie was a true connector—someone who made friends wherever he went, across every walk of life, and across the globe. He had a unique gift for staying in touch, always reaching out with a message, a new song, or a perfectly timed joke to brighten someone’s day.

A passionate music lover, Donnie was constantly on the hunt for new sounds and loved playing DJ for his friends. He found joy in sharing playlists, sending tracks that made him think of others, and making music a thread that connected him to the people he loved.

He was an avid gamer who built friendships across continents, finding real and lasting community in online spaces. But where Donnie truly lit up was at music festivals and concerts—he felt like himself in those spaces. The energy, the sound, the people—those were sacred to him. Dancing with friends under open skies, discovering new artists, singing loud to old favorites—those moments were his joy. He also found adventure in snowboarding, camping, and riding his one wheel, always seeking new experiences and ways to enjoy the moment, but music was his heartbeat.

Donnie was silly, sweet, and unafraid to be goofy. He made people laugh—really laugh—and made even the quietest people feel welcome. His absence leaves an ache, but also a warmth, because of how deeply he loved and how fully he lived.

He is survived by his parents, Kim and Roger Wheeler, and a wide, beloved community of friends and chosen family who will miss him deeply.

As his mom, Kim, so beautifully says:

“My Son,

You left me with beautiful memories. Memories that will last a lifetime. I’ll hold them in my heart.

Love, Mom”

A celebration of life for Donnie will be held on Sunday, June 1st at 10:00 AM at the Rocklin Community Center. All are welcome to come and share in remembering him. An RSVP would be appreciated so we can prepare accordingly.

More information and details can be found at: https://everloved.com/life-of/donnie-wheeler/?flow=201

In the meantime, those who wish to honor Donnie can do so by reaching out to someone they love, sharing a favorite song, giving a big hug, or simply making time to connect. That’s how Donnie lived—with heart, humor, and intention.

He will be missed beyond words and remembered with so much love.