David Lee Wendtland's Obituary
David Lee Wendtland, husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, coach, mentor and civil servant, died surrounded by family in his home on Saturday April 19th,2025 at the age of 81 after a long battle with heart failure. For those who knew him the concept of heart failure might be sadly ironic in that he had one of the fullest hearts around.
David was born and raised in Beloit Wisconsin. He graduated from Beloit High School in 1962. He attended Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago where he obtained his BA in Architecture and his Master's Degree in City and Regional Planning. He wed his high school sweetheart Lynn Meyers in 1965. He made his way into the life of community service as an Assistant to the Mayor in Appleton (WI), City Planner in Oshkosh (WI) and later as a City Manager in Meadville (PA) and Muskegon (MI). He finished out his professional life working for the Muskegon Economic Growth Association (MEGA) and finally as a realtor for Crystal Anderson. David also served on the Civil Service Board for the City of Muskegon, along with being a member at the Downtown Eagles and The Vikings.
David loved sports, playing, coaching and rooting from the sidelines. He loved riding his bike, working in the woodshop, traveling and spending time with friends and family. David always had a smile on his face, a welcoming embrace and a helping hand to lend to anyone who needed it. He was quiet in his service to others, never asking for applause or acknowledgment, he lent a hand because it was the fabric of who he was. He taught by example and did the right thing, even when it was hard or unpopular. He was front row to his kids, and then his grandkids events and accomplishments, or he provided a strong shoulder when needed. He was exceptionally proud of helping to establish and maintain with the cooperation of the City of Muskegon, the Coast Guard and neighborhood volunteers, the Lighthouse Park. He lived his life by the motto "For every problem, there is a solution".
He is survived by his wife of fifty-nine years Lynn Meyer Wendtland. David was the son of Irma and Oscar Wendtland. He leaves behind his loving children Leigh Wendtland (Carlos Pava) and Jason (Julie) Wendtland as well as his grandkids Quinton, Katie, Aidan, Audrey, Luna and Mateo, as well as several nieces and nephews. David has one surviving sister Ginger Campfield.
Per David's request, a Celebration of Life will be held Friday from 11:30-3:00 May 30th, 2025, at the Vikings Club in Muskegon Michigan. There will be a luncheon served at 11:30, followed by sharing of memories and experiences at 1:00pm. The family asks that people bring their memories for sharing written down to add to a keepsake for the family when the celebration is over. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harbor Hospice or Pound Buddies.
Arrangements made by Shoreline Memorial Services, Muskegon, Michigan (231)-722-5050
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