Melvin the Wacky Wheeler called it a career Saturday after being a fan favorite in parades across Wisconsin for nearly 20 years.

Rob Summerbell rolled his 350 lb. wheel through the Elkhorn and New Berlin Christmas parades Saturday to the cheers of some adoring fans that came out despite, at times, torrential downpours.

"It feels really nice," said Summerbell after completing the New Berlin route. "People are very supportive of what I've been doing and it cuts to my heart."

At his peak, the Wacky Wheeler performed in 70-90 events per year, with his biggest day being when rolls in six local 4th of July parades. At 56, the acrobatics required to play Melvin take too much of a toll on Summerbell's body and forced him to call it quits after more than 1200 parades.

Watch for CBS 58 Sunday Morning in the near future for a special story on Melvin the Wacky Wheeler's career entertaining people all over the state and the country.

Save with