Wiley A. Middleton

Wiley Andrew Middleton, 87, of Poncha Springs died April 23, 2022, at his home. He was married to Rosa (Flores) Middleton, his sweetheart that he met while stationed at Camp Hale near Leadville, Colorado. He would hitchhike to Leadville, to go on chaperoned dates and then marry the wife he loved for 67 years. Wiley was born in 1935 in Millington, Tennessee to James J. and Jamie C. Middleton. As a boy, Wiley enjoyed picking blackberries in the morning before catching the school bus and would then work in the fields after school. He attended and graduated from Wynne High School in Wynne, Arkansas Class of 1953. Wiley joined the US Army in 1954 and would then retire in 1974. Many memories were created after countless moves within the United States and tours overseas in Korea, Germany and Vietnam. During his many assignments one of his most memorable was being stationed in Vietnam, serving with the 11th Air Assault Division and later the 1st Air Cavalry (Air Mobile). These units introduced the concept of helicopters on the battlefield. After retiring from the Army, Wiley would work at Climax, a Molybdenum mining operation. He worked until retiring a second time. He then bought a 5th wheel and with Rosa by his side they hit the road. Wiley and Rosa were campground hosts in various parts of Colorado for many years. Wiley taught his kids and grandkids the love for the great outdoors through camping and fishing and most importantly, respect for people. Wiley A. Middleton was preceded in death by his parents James J. and Jamie C. Middleton, siblings and son Michael Dean Middleton. He is survived by his wife Rosa (Flores) Middleton, sons Wiley J.(Deborah) Middleton, Jim E. Middleton, Paul J.(Kerri) Middleton and daughter Andrea R. Middleton. Grandkids include Chelsea Norton, Rose Hrabak, Selena Middleton, Wiley R. Middleton, Leticia Faust, Melissa Doyle, Michael Maestas, Andrew Middleton, Adrian Middleton, Ayden Middleton and many incredible great grandchildren. Wiley was known for his contagious wit, warmth and friendliness. We are heartbroken about this loss and will miss him immensely. There will be no service at this time though a private family gathering will be held in the future. Arrangements were with Lewis and Glenn in Salida, Colorado.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wiley A. Middleton, please visit our floral store.