The family moved to the Jones Creek area near New Taiton, and later, to Crescent, where he graduated from high school. He served two years in the Army then attended Electronics school in Houston where he learned electronics and television repair. He was the owner of Wendel’s TV in downtown Columbus. The historic building where he operated his sales and service is now the Live Oak Art Center. He was a member of St. Roch’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Geraldine Dettling, Magdalene Kudlac, and Edmunda Wendel as well as his brothers Gilbert, Clarence and Edmund Wendel, Jr. and niece and nephew Helen Dettling Monfrey and Leroy Dettling.

He is survived by his brother Bernard Wendel of Fort Worth, Texas; sister-in-law Evelyn Wendel of Louise, Texas, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Affectionately known as Uncle Allen, he hosted Thanksgiving at his modest home in Mentz for over 50 years making it a favorite holiday for several generations of cousins. It was a time to gather and enjoy good food, play dominoes, visit with family, and explore the Piney Woods.

Pallbearers were Gary Wendel, Chris Wendel, Jerry Schroy, David Molick, Bryan Molick, Gerald Wendel and John Dettling.

Funeral mass was Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024 at 1 p.m. at St. Roch Catholic Church in Mentz, Texas with Fr. James Dvorak officiating. Visitation was from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. with a rosary at 12:30 p.m.

Burial was in St. Roch Catholic Cemetery in Mentz.

Memorials may be made to St. Roch Catholic Church Altar Society, 1600 Frelsburg Road, Alleyton, TX 78935.

Funeral Service under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home, 1515 Montezuma St., Columbus, Texas.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.