Merle A. Wendt

Merle A. Wendt of Antigo died Thursday, July 10, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. He was 94 years old. He was born Feb. 16, 1920, son of the late Fred and Pauline (Gartske) Wendt. He married Mary Ellen (Reader) Wendt on Sept. 5, 1945, and she survives. Mr. Wendt was a graduate of Antigo High School and a veteran of the Army Air Corps. He worked on the railroad until he sustained a work-related injury. He was a founding member of the Antigo Co-op Credit Union, now known as CoVantage Credit Union. He went on to work as vice president of the credit union. Mr. Wendt was an active community leader, serving on the Antigo Common Council from 1964-1986 and 1988-2002. He also was a member of the Langlade County Board from 1964-1968, 1974-1982, and 1984-2006. He belonged to the Elks Lodge and Rotary Club. He was a member of SS. Mary & Hyacinth Catholic Church. In addition to his wife, Mary Ellen Wendt of Antigo, survivors include 3 daughters, Sue Ellen (Ron) Zalewski of Pelican Lake, Denise Wendt of Antigo, and Barbara (Tim) Fermanich of Antigo; a brother, Vern (Irene) Wendt of Antigo; 6 grandchildren, Ron Zalewski, Jr., Jim Ostermeier, Timothea (Scott) Uttecht, Jennifer (Brian) Hissom, John (Maggie) Fermanich, and Jacob Fermanich; 7 great-grandchildren, Lane Zalewski, Logan Hissom, Luke Hissom, Levi Hissom, Emma Fermanich, Stella Uttecht, and Tate Uttecht; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson Steven Zalewski; 2 sisters, Lillian Wendt, and Mabel Stone; and 4 brothers, Oscar, Lloyd, Rufus, and Herb. A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Monday at Strasser-Roller Funeral Home. Visitation will be 9:00-11:00 Monday at the funeral home. Interment will follow the service at Elmwood Cemetery. Local veterans will perform military rites at the cemetery. A memorial will be established in Merle's name.