Wendell Blixt

Resided in Rapid River, MI
Died November 6, 2013

Rapid River, MI
Wendell L. Blixt, 72, of 10874 S.75 Rd, Rapid River, was surrounded by family when he passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2013 in Lecanto, Florida following a brief illness.

He was born to parents Edward and Helen Blixt on July 6, 1941 in Escanaba. Wendell grew up with his six brothers and sisters on the family farm in Cornell, where he developed a reputed work ethic that carried him throughout his life. He graduated from Escanaba Area High School in 1960, served years in the Army National Guard, and worked at the Harnischfeger manufacturing plant in Escanaba until the late 1970’s before heading the Data Processing department at Bay de Noc Community College. Following his retirement from the college in 1997, Wendell moved to Rapid River and wintered in Beverly Hills, Florida, with his wife Kathy and their dog, Scooter.

Wendell enjoyed camping, deer hunting, ice fishing, downhill skiing, running, and especially golfing for many years at the Gladstone Golf Club, and later, at the Nahma Golf Club. Most of all, though, he loved working with his hands, building everything from homes, to tree forts, to bikes, for his children, grandchildren, other family, and friends. Wendell was a friend to everyone and his generosity, good-natured humor, and loving heart will be missed by all who knew him.

Wendell is survived by his wife, Kathy; mother, Helen; brothers Richard (Ethel), Wayne (Susan), and Bryan (Pam); sisters Beverly (Gary) Quick, Connie (David) Alspach, and Karen (Darrell) Hall; sons Ryan (Meredith), Ben (Heather), and Nathan (Ingrid); stepdaughters Julie Wigand and Natalie Anderson; three grandchildren and two step grandchildren; his dog, Scooter; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edward, in 1991.

Wendell’s three sons will hold a visitation for his family, friends, former coworkers, and other acquaintances on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Prayer services will follow at 6:00 PM, at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba, with Rev. Erik Heskin of Bethany Lutheran Church officiating. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Blixt family with arrangements.

10 Tributes for “Wendell Blixt”

    Dear Ben, Nathan, Julie, & all of Wendell’s family.
    I was shocked & saddened to hear about Wendell.
    I’m so very sorry for loss! I have nothing but good memories of Wendell when I was employed as a daycare provider for Ben. I remember Wendell always being so upbeat & ready to make a person laugh. His eyes would actually twinkle, when he’d tell me a joke. Lord knows how many times~ he made me giggle!
    He was very kind to me, & he was spot on, about thinking that “Denny” (as he called him) was a good guy for me. 🙂

    I pray for comfort & peace for all of you, now & in the days ahead.
    Sent with love,
    Cheryl & Dennis

    Kathy,
    What a shock to hear of Wendell’s passing. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as you struggle through this very difficult time. We lost a dear friend at Christmas and know there will be many difficult days ahead. Find strength and comfort in so many wonderful memories you shared as well as our prayers being lifted up for you.

    In sympathy and love,

    Ken and Debbie Jussila

    I am shocked to have read of Wendell’s passing. I live a couple years in one of his apartments in Kipling before moving to TX and he was a great landlord. My sympathy to his wife and family.

    I had the pleasure of working with Wendell at Bay de Noc Community College.He was a great colleague and a friend. He always had a smile and good humor to share! I know he will be missed. My deepest condolences to all of his family.

    Dear Kathy & family,
    My thoughts & prayers have been with you and Wendell since I first learned via Lana that he was seriously ill. From his photo and all the warm and kind things mentioned about him, you had hit the jackpot when you married Wendell. Ten years is a short time, especially with such a wonderful man, but better to have loved and lost than never have loved at all, meaning your time with him. Hopefully, we can get together with Lana the next time we are both in Escanaba area.

    May God give you grace and healing through the upcoming days, weeks, months & years.

    Bonnie Yelland

    I was shocked to read in the Daily Press online that Wendell had passed. My deepest sympathies are with all the Blixt family. Please know that my heart goes out to all of you. I will always remember Wendell with that contagious smile on his face. God’s blessings to each of you and may He ease this sadness while you remember all the wonderful ways in which Wendell touched your hearts and lives.

    My Uncle Wendell was a great guy whom I will miss. He always had such a great sense of humor and a big heart. Sending love and prayers to the family. I wish I could be part of the memorial but won’t be able to make it. All my love to you, Jodi

    I have fond memories of Wendell. He was pleasent as he accomplished many projects for Bay College. My sympathies to you his family members. Dwight Link, Retired President, Bay College

    I knew Wendell when I worked at the Credit Union… My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.. He was always so chipper and happy when he would come in, and such a joy to talk to. he will be missed greatly..

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