Erwin James Wendt

Leesburg, FL - Erwin James Wendt, 88, of Leesburg, Florida, native and longtime resident of Constableville, passed away on Friday, January 5, 2018 while surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 15, 1929 in Constableville, a son of Walter and Mildred Higby Wendt. Erwin attended Constableville Central School and graduated from Turin Union School in 1946. After working in his Aunts General Store, he was employed by Victory Markets and later for the Great American for 37 years, 20 of which he was the manager. On November 28, 1947, Erwin was united in marriage with Phyllis Ann Krokowski at the Turin United Methodist Church. In their nearly 50 years of marriage they enjoyed camping while traveling throughout the United States with their children. They also enjoyed antiquing and restoring old furniture. Both Erwin and Phyllis were active members of the Constableville United Methodist Church and found much joy serving together; Phyllis as the Organist, and Erwin as a Layman and Trustee. After his retirement, Erwin and Phyllis moved to Florida, where they lived until Phyllis passed away in 1997. On February 14, 1998, Erwin and Reverand Ruth Elaine Peronne were married. Erwin is survived by his wife, Rev. Ruth Wendt of Leesburg, FL, sons: David Wendt and Paul Wendt, daughters-in-law: Susan Carpenter Wendt La Roy, Nancy Beadore Wendt, sister Margaret (Joseph) Levesque, Lowville, sister-in-law Sandra Bigness and her companion Frank Kozacka, The Villages, FL, grandchildren: Andy, Michael, Kim and Christine; great-grandchildren: Jacob Lucas Wendt, Dylan Michael Wendt, and Jaxtyn Allen Wendt; along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Harold Wendt, great-granddaughter Arriana Grace Tengel; daughter-in-law: Patricia Schleicher Wendt, and half-brother Fred Higby. Relatives and friends are invited to attend Memorial Services on Sunday, September 30, 2018 at 2:00 pm at the Constableville United Methodist Church, West St., Constableville. Interment will follow in Constableville Rural Cemetery. Arrangements are in care of the Trainor Funeral Home, Inc. Boonville.