He has been a member of the Lookout Point Indoor Bowls Club for 55 years and still enjoys the sport.
Wheeler (86), a retired metal polisher, was a founding member of the club when it was formed in 1955.
His loyalty was honoured at a special function by the club last weekend.
"We are proud of him. He has been loyal to the club and this has inspired others," club treasurer Iris Roberts said.
"Colin has inspired loyalty from other members who come from all parts of the city to play for the club," she said.
The Lookout Point club was formed at the local Presbyterian Church but as numbers grew its headquarters was shifted to the Riselaw Road School.
There were 20 founding members of the club in 1955 and they played on two mats at the weekly club night.
"I'm the last surviving original member," Wheeler said.
"I was complaining about the knocks I had playing for Roslyn Wakari and my wife Noeline told me to give up soccer and start bowls."
Interclub tournaments were played originally at the Prince Albert Hall before the centre headquarters at the Dunedin Stadium was built,Wheeler has not won any Otago titles but reached the semifinals of the South Island Championship pairs with Clem Jones in the early 1960s.
Bowls has become an important part of Wheeler's life since his wife died six years ago.
He attends club night each Monday and is still a member of the Lookout Point team for interclub competition.
"I enjoy the friendship. If I didn't have bowls I'd be lost," Wheeler said.
"I don't know what I would do. The club is an important part of my life.
"They are a good crowd and look after me. We are a relaxed club and enjoy club nights."
