Lee L. Wendel, 84, of Mendota, passed away at home surrounded by his family and friends.

Visitation will be Monday, January 31, 2022 from 4-7 p.m. 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 January 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 he 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 up until 2009 at which point his son Terry joined his father in the farming business. He also worked several winter jobs in town. He had three daughters from his first marriage, Susan (Hughie) McCoy, Connie (Jon) Yambert and Sherry (Lane) Zerbe. On August 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 the 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 grown from the front porch.

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

He also leaves behind many grandchildren and great grandchildren and his dog and faithful companion Rags.

Memorials may be directed to the Sublette Fire and Ambulance Departments.