Ralph J. Wendler, 79
Ralph J. Wendler, 79, of Wittenberg, died on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at his home with his family by his side, and under the care of LeRoyer Hospice, Antigo.
He was born on September 27, 1939 in Shorewood, the son of the late August and Ella (Polley) Wendler. On April 9, 1960, Ralph was united in marriage to Mary Zabrowski in Fort Wayne, IN. She preceded him in death on December 28, 2018.
After graduating from high school, Ralph served his country in the US Army where he learned to work as a diesel mechanic. These skills served him well, as he went on to work as a welder and mechanic for Miller Electric Manufacturing in Appleton for over 25 years. After retiring in 2002, he worked part-time doing farming or general mechanic work. He was known to always have something he was tinkering with. Ralph enjoyed going to old car and tractor shows and stock car races. He also enjoyed deer hunting and fishing. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wittenberg, and an honorary member of the Bloecher-Johnson American Legion Post #502, Wittenberg.
Survivors include two sons, Dean Wendler of Wittenberg and Brian (Cheryl) Wendler of Appleton; two grandchildren, Logan Wendler (Courtney Vandenberg) and Arianna Wendler; sisters-in-law, Jane Wendler of Wittenberg, and Linda Zabrowski of Oshkosh; and brother-in-law, Mark Roman of Appleton.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Mary, and his brother, Roland Wendler.
The funeral service will be held at 11AM on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Wittenberg. Rev. Matthew Christians will officiate. Burial will be in Forest Home Cemetery, Wittenberg, where military honors will be conducted. Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:30AM until the time of service at the church.