John M. Wendling

obit template2018-11-29T12:10:12+00:00

John M.
Wendling

  • Visitation Saturday, August 19, 2023 from 9:-10:45 am at
  • WISCONSIN MEMORIAL PARK “Chapel of the Chimes”
  • 13235 West Capitol Drive  Brookfield, WI  53005
  • Funeral service at 11:00 am.  Entombment to follow.

John M. Wendling

Passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at the age of 75 years.  Beloved husband of Ann (nee Van Aacken) for 48 years. Loving dad of Michael (Jamie), Scott (Rebecca) and Jeremy.  Proud grandpa of Jackson and Peyton and proud papa of Garrett and Sawyer.  Brother of Richard (Cathy).  Brother-in-law of the late John (Mary), Paul (Patricia), the late Edward (the late Linda), Robert (Dawn) Van Aacken and Ellen (Lawrence) Strachota.  Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

John was born and raised in Milwaukee with his parents, John and Audrey, and his brother, Richard. He received his secondary education at Custer High School and subsequently graduated from UW Milwaukee with a degree in business administration. During his tenure at UW Milwaukee, he met his beloved wife, Ann, whom he married on January 18, 1975. John and Ann were blessed with three sons. While raising his children, John worked as a shipping supervisor for AO Smith, which later became Tower Automotive. He cherished his time working with his crew and often recounted his experiences with them.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed their lake home, fishing, repairing his 1969 Stingray Corvette, and rebuilding a boat. Throughout his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, he assisted them in scouting and constructed over 20 pinewood derby cars, which won seven different trophies. He relished spending time with and spoiling his four grandchildren. Retirement kept him occupied, and his grandchildren kept him youthful.

Unfortunately, he recently battled cancer and emerged victorious, but the treatment’s side effects and a stroke took a toll on him, and he passed away. He delighted in assisting others with their projects and utilizing his numerous spare parts to repair what he could. He always had a screw or a nut in a jar that he never discarded, as it might come in handy someday. He relished the idea of using multiple head screws in any project.

John was a father figure who was cherished and will be missed by all.

Visitation Saturday, August 19, 2023 from 9:-10:45 am at WISCONSIN MEMORIAL PARK “Chapel of the Chimes” 13235 West Capitol Drive Brookfield, WI  53005.  Funeral service at 11:00 am.  Entombment to follow.

Casual attire appreciated!

In lieu of flowers, donations to MACC, www.maccfund.org, in John’s name appreciated.

www.heritagefuneral.com

 

5 Comments

  1. Susan Kalmer August 14, 2023 at 2:05 am - Reply

    My condolences to Ann, Michael, Scott, and Jeremy. I will always remember the wonderful holiday gatherings we had together throughout the years. Whenever Gordon came to Milwaukee we gathered together for great food and lively conversation.
    John was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend and he will be missed.
    I send my love to you all and I will be thinking of you next Saturday.

  2. Eisbrenner Family August 16, 2023 at 11:00 am - Reply

    Our sincere condolences to John’s family and friends. John touched many lives and will be thought of often and never forgotten.. May your many wonderful memories carry you through this difficult time. This Bible verse recorded in John 5:28 has been of comfort to our family when experiencing a loss. It reads “all those in the memorial tombs will hear his (Jesus) voice and come out “. May God Jehovah give strength and his love to each of you.

  3. Peter McKernan August 16, 2023 at 9:06 pm - Reply

    On behalf of the entire Alpine Valley Ski Patrol team, I want to express our deepest condolences for the loss of your father, John M. Wendling. Your father’s obituary beautifully captures the essence of his life, his passion, and his impact on those around him. It’s evident that he was a remarkable individual who will be greatly missed.

    Please know that our thoughts and hearts are with you and your family during this challenging time. Your Ski Patrol family is here to offer support and comfort in any way we can. If there’s anything you need, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

    Take care and may your father’s memory be a source of strength and inspiration for all of us.

    Warm regards

  4. Linda & Tater August 17, 2023 at 8:52 am - Reply

    Prayer’s are being said for you and your families..

  5. Garry Kelderhouse August 17, 2023 at 9:13 pm - Reply

    Remembering……
    John gave me a gift the very first time I was down at the lake! He took me for a boat ride tour around the entire lake, knowing that I was a Kayak driver, he pointed out various features that l may want to visit and the history of some of the homes and of ones that were once there.
    He also pointed out a tavern, with a twinkle in his eye, and a smile, that he often frequented. Obviously a very special place!!
    I will never forget his kindness on that day….it was my third boat ride of my life and the only one that wasn’t a short commercial site-seeing trip……
    My heart goes out to you Ann and your family…….
    gak

Leave a condolence or share a memory

Go to Top