MENDOTA - Lee L. Wendel, 84, of Mendota, passed away Jan. 26, 2022 at home surrounded by his family and friends.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 31 at the Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota. A service will follow at 7 p.m. with his granddaughter, Rev. Maria Bonine officiating. Private burial will be at Restland Cemetery, Mendota at a later date.

Lee was born Jan. 17, 1938 at Harris Hospital in Mendota to proud parents Henry and Gunda (Rebhan) Wendel. He was welcomed home by a sister, Evelyn and brother, Lyle.

In his younger years, Lee had numerous cars and a very heavy foot which coined him his nickname, “Lightning Lee.” In 1955, he graduated from Mendota High School. In 1956, Lee and his brother started farming the family farm and continued until 2009 when Lee’s son, Terry joined him in the farming business. He also worked several winter jobs in town.

Lee had three daughters from his first marriage, Susan (Hughie) McCoy, Connie (Jon) Yambert and Sherry (Lane) Zerbe. On Aug. 30, 1968 he married Carol Ossman in Dixon, which Judge Bales officiated. Carol had three children, Robert Lewis, Kathy Lewis and Dawn Thomas. Lee adopted her youngest daughter, Dawn. In May of 1972, Lee and Carol had a son, Terry “Boomer” Wendel. Lee lived in the same house his entire life. He loved the farm and enjoyed watching the crops grow from the front porch.

Lee also leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his dog and faithful companion, Rags.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister; a brother; one daughter, Sherry Zerbe; one granddaughter, Sarah Christoffersen; one grandson, John Zimmerly; and his loving wife of 51 years, Carol in 2019.

Memorials may be directed to the Sublette Fire and Ambulance Departments. Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com.