Leland Merle

Wendt

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Leland (Lonnie) Merle Wendt on November 6th, 2026. His 83 years of life were filled with quiet strength, endless jokes, and unwavering commitment to those he loved.

Leland was born on May 8th, 1943 in Midland, Michigan. He was raised by his parents, Dorothy Smith and Merle Wendt. He spent his early years dedicated to the natural world around him and getting into mischief with his cousins. His love for horses was unparalleled and he spent many years caring for them. Throughout his later years, the summers involved camping and traveling with family and/or friends. During the winter, he enjoyed ice fishing with his buddies. And being an avid hunter, he would find himself in the woods hunting deer and in the fields hunting ducks. On August 7th, 1965, Leland married the love of his life, Jean Wendt. They devoted a joyous 61 years to each other, in which they never turned down an opportunity to dance together.

The love and compassion Leland had only grew when his children, Jeff and Stacy were born. Known to be a doting father, he spent countless hours with his children. He shared his love for the outdoors with Jeff, and his love for music and dancing with Stacy. His children continuously filled his life with laughter and unforgettable memories. His wife was his rock, and his children and granddaughters were his world.

Leland became an Ironworker through a skilled trade program of which he was extremely proud. He worked with several different manufacturing companies, including Whaley Steel Corporation. He was a member of the Local 426/ Local 25 Union, and recently achieved the 50 year membership milestone. His work provided him with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment.

Leland was not only devoted to his family, but was also a faithful servant to God. He spent many years attending St. John's Lutheran of Zilwaukee and then Emanuel Lutheran Church in Tawas City, MI with his family. He was often tasked with making sure his two granddaughters behaved in church, which typically only led to more giggles.

Leland was known to wear many hats throughout his life. He was the jokester, the merrymaker, the authority maker, the family man, and many more. At the end of the day, he was always Leland. The man that was quick to offer a helping hand and usually suggested a snack afterwards. The one who completed his chores after a long physical day at work. The one who took pride in a pristine vehicle and a meticulous yard. The one that liked to sit in his chair at the end of the day and finish a word search. The one that liked to drive around in his truck and look for deer and turkeys. The one that always showed up to offer support, no matter what. Leland will be greatly missed and his legacy will always be celebrated.

Leland was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy Smith and Merle Wendt. He is survived by his sister, Merleen Foster (Gary) of Port Saint John, Florida; his wife, Jean Wendt; his children, Jeff Wendt (Andrea), and Stacy Perrot; his granddaughters, Brittany Corbin (Blake), Alexandra Perrot, and Payton Perrot, and many more family members and friends that will deeply miss him.

Funeral service will take place at 11:30 a.m., at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Road, on Friday, November 13, 2026. Rev. Noah Bruckschen will officiate with burial in Roselawn Memorial Gardens. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, at the Chapel, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday, from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider King of Kings Lutheran Church, Frankenmuth.