| The value of water as a theraputic was the announced subject of the discussion which was to follow the lunch at the first outing of the Wocester North District medical society at Whalom, Tuesday afternoon ..... (society business omitted here) Dr. C. E. Bigelow of Leominster was next introduced to read a memorial to the life and character of the late Dr. Charles A. Wheeler of Leominster. On motion of Dr. D. S. Woodworth, the memorial will be spread upon the records of the society and copies sent to the family of the deceased. The memorial follows: Dr. Charles A. Wheeler was born in Fitchburg, Dec. 6, 1836. He graduated from the Fitchburg high school in the class of '54. He then immediately began the study of medicine, graduating in 1857, from the Worcester Eclectic Medical college. He bagan the practive of medicine in Boylston in November, 1858. He enlisted as a private in the 15th Mass. regiment in November, 1861, was commissioned assistant surgeon in the 12th Mass. regiment in December, 1862, and was mustered out with the regiment, July 8, 1864. In August, 1864, he moved to Leominster where he engaged in the practive of medicine until his death, with the exception of about nine months, from the fall of 1870 to the summer of 1871, when he resided in Claremont, N. H. He died in Boston, Feb. 11, 1904, as the result of an operation for the removal of the gall bladder, caused by the presence of a large gall stone. Dr. Wheeler was a man of decided personality, pleasant, affable and agreeable to meet, yet with strong convictions on subjects which interested him. His manner was sometimes brusque, yet beneath this exterior there existed a kindly and genial nature, sympathetic heart, and a readiness to help those needing assistance. He was particularly strong in his love for his family, which was shown by the many sacrifices he made to educate his boy. In the practice of his profession he was progressive, a great student, and kept in touch with the advanced ideas of the leaders of our profession. At the same time he held decided opinions of his own. As the family physician he became very much endeared to all those with whom he came in contact, and was esteemed not only for his medical skill but also as a true and lasting friend. As a member of the community in which he resided, he was highly respected. This was shown by his having served several years on the school board, and by being unanimously elected commander of Post 53, G. A. R., for two years, as well as being elected to high office of honor and trust in other organizations to which he belonged. As a public speaker he had a good command of language, a good fund of wit and the ability to entertain his audiences in such a manner as to create a demand for him on public occasions. He was best understood and appreciated by thos who knew him best, and whith whom he was the most associated, and by those he will be greatly missed. (here follows further society business) |