James Edward Wendel

James Edward “Jim” Wendel, age 59 of Mishawaka, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Monday, December 5, 2022.  Jim was born May 10, 1963, in Warsaw, Indiana. Following the death of his mother, his father married Candy Wendel who helped raise him from the age of 10. He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School and later studied Theology with Lester Sumerall at Christian Center Church in South Bend.

He is survived by his mother Candy Wendel of Mishawaka and his siblings Bill (Chris) Hackworth of North Webster, Indiana, Sharon (Bob) Kneller of Gobles, Michigan, Barbara (Jerry) Hubert of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Suzanne (Vincent) Woodford of Mishawaka, along with numerous nephews, nieces, great nephews and great nieces. He was preceded in death by his father Glenn Edward Wendel and his mother Inez (Tolett) Wendel.

Visitation will be held from 3-6 pm Sunday, December 11, 2022, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.  Funeral services will be conducted by Pastor Terry Parker of the Michiana Christian Community Church on Monday, December 12, 2022, at 1:00 pm Cruz Family Funeral Home and interment will be private in St. Peter’s First Community Church Cemetery in Huntington, Indiana.

Jim spent more than 35 years in management with Penguin Point Restaurants throughout the area.  He will be remembered by the many customers he served for his work ethic, friendly demeanor, positive attitude and the ability to bond with his regular customers. He later took a position with Martin’s Supermarkets, Heritage Square where he was well respected as a friend and co-worker.

In his spare time, he enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs, Indianapolis Colts, and the Mishawaka Cavemen.  His kindness and generosity were beyond measure, and he was always appreciative of others and loved to return the favor to anyone who had helped him.

In his memory, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Center for Hospice.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jim’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.