Amanda “Mandy” Kristine Wheaton, MD

Amanda “Mandy” Kristine Wheaton, MD, age 36, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully Friday, October 23, 2020, surrounded by her loving family and friends after a courageous battle against cancer. Mandy was born in Ashland, Ohio on September 27, 1984 and graduated from Ashland High School in 2002 as valedictorian.  She graduated from Youngstown State University (summa cum laude) in 2004 and received her Doctor of Medicine from Northeast Ohio Medical University in 2008 (Alpha Omega Alpha). Mandy completed her medical residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Pulmonology & Critical Care at the University of Michigan Hospitals. She married Michael Wheaton on October 27, 2012 in Petoskey, Michigan. She was employed with the Spectrum Health Medical Group from 2016 until the time of diagnosis where she is remembered as a tireless advocate for her patients.

Mandy’s loving spirit is best reflected in her deep devotion to family. She created a warm home that celebrated her favorite activities; cooking, crafts, playing violin, adventures and reading to her girls! Her patience, forgiveness and grace live on in the hearts of her daughters. To balance out this splendid heart, Mandy was brilliant, decisive and the most practical person in the room. She listened completely, led with humility, and lived without ego. These virtues made her a fiercely loyal friend and a cherished colleague. She faced her illness with this same beautiful balance and believed in the goodness of people above all. Simply put, Mandy IS the best.

Mandy was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Joe Rhoads and Robert Kinney. She is survived by her husband, Michael Wheaton, MD; daughters, Anna (5), Madeline (2); parents, Brant & Carol Kinney; brother, Adam (Kelcie) Kinney; sister, Emily (Pericles) Grivanos; grandmothers, Mary Rhoads and Delphine Kinney; family and friends around the world who loved her immeasurably. Due to public health concerns, a private ceremony will be held with interment at Greenwood Cemetery, Petoskey, MI. A large Celebration of Life party will be held to include everyone and anyone who has been touched by Mandy’s amazing spirit when safe and advisable. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Make a Wish Foundation or Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids.