Dorothy Wendling

Dorothy Evelyn Wendling, age 104, a long-time resident of Fort Myers Florida, passed from this life into the Lord's arms Saturday March 22, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Dorothy (nee Anderson) married the love of her life, Henry Wendling, on August 16, 1941. Henry was a floral designer for many years in Chicago, and Dorothy was a homemaker and Sunday School teacher. During their years in Chicago, they were long-time members of Beverly (formerly Bethany) Covenant Church, where they inspired the faith lives of many, as they served in youth leadership and a wide variety of other leadership and servant roles. In 1969, the couple moved to Axtell, Nebraska, and served for 27 years at Bethphage Mission, a residential facility for those with significant mental and physical challenges. Dorothy became one of the most beloved housemothers in a home for 23 women.

In 1996, the couple retired to Fort Myers, Florida where they once again became active church members, mentoring youth, and serving in leadership and servant roles. In addition, they became active volunteers serving the aged and infirm and working as hospital volunteers at Gulf Coast Hospital. After Henry's passing in 2011, Dorothy became active in fitness classes and volunteer work-still delivering Meals on Wheels at age 99!

Dorothy is survived by her children Carol (Samuel) Jones and Kenneth (Linda) Wendling; her grandchildren Krista (Paul) Magnuson, Eric (Jennifer) Jones, Gregory (Lora) Wendling, Laura Wendling, Hannah Wendling, and Kimmie Criglar. She is also remembered fondly by her great-grandchildren, Lila, Adlai, and Synmar, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and Godchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Henry, an infant son, her sister Lorraine (Rudolph) Walter, and her brother Robert (Maureen) Anderson.

She will be sadly missed by family and friends. The memorial for Dorothy was small and private. Donations may be sent to Mosaic- formerly Bethphage Mission (www.mosaicinfo.org) and The Parkinson's Foundation (www.parkinson.org).