Jeffrey Lynn "Jeff" Wenstrand Sr.

GWINN - Jeffrey "Jeff" Wenstrand Sr. age 75, of Gwinn, passed away peacefully at home on August 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Geneva, Illinois on December 3, 1949, the son of Harvey and Hazell (Lunn) Wenstrand. Jeff was raised in St. Charles, Illinois, and graduated from St. Charles High School in 1969. Shortly after, he began a distinguished 22-year career in the United States Air Force, serving as a jet engine mechanic, working in mortuary affairs, and later as a Wang Laboratories computer technician. His military service took him to bases around the world, including Lackland AFB (TX), Chanute AFB (IL), CCK Taiwan (1970–71), Luke AFB (AZ), Bitburg AFB (Germany, 1971–76), Kincheloe AFB (MI), Ellsworth AFB (SD, 1976–84), and finally setting roots at KI Sawyer AFB (MI, 1984–91), retiring in 1991.

On October 15, 1971, Jeff married Joanna (Shulaw) with whom he shared 49 years of marriage and raised three children until her passing in April of 2021. On February 14, 2024, he married his second wife, Candice, who remained by his side through his final days.

Following his military career, Jeff became a well-known local businessman, running S & W Pawn Shop for 20 years and Jeff's Bobcat Service for another 20 years. He was also deeply committed to volunteering, dedicating 15 years to the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), providing compassionate dedicated care with Lake Superior Hospice, and always lending a hand to anyone in need.

Jeff's hobbies reflected his boundless energy and love for people, riding his Gold Wing with his first wife, Joanna, camping, cutting grass, attending auctions, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was an active member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, Crossroads Christian Fellowship Church, Hiawathaland Snowmobile & ATV Club, and a veterans' peer support group affectionately known as the "Ol' Coots." He and Joanna also opened their hearts and home to many children as foster parents over the years.

Jeff was known for his generosity, always willing to give the shirt off his back, and for his ability to make friends wherever he went.

He is survived by his wife, Candice; children, Jeffrey (Lisa) Wenstrand Jr. of Gwinn, and Janeé (James Mitchell) Rozich of Gwinn; grandchildren, Philip Wenstrand, Kyle Rozich, James Rozich, and Jacob Pepin; adopted grandchildren; and great-grandchildren, Parker Whitney and Kaillin Whitney.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Joanna; a son, Jason Wenstrand; and a great-grandson, Nolan Wenstrand.

A celebration of Jeff's life will be held on Saturday August 23, 2025 at the Crossroads Christian Fellowship Church. Visitation will take place from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. Services will be held at 1:00 pm with Pastor Andy Liimatta officiating, with a lunch to follow at the church. A last-ride for Jeff will be departing Canale-Tonella Funeral Home in Marquette on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at 10 am processing to the Gwinn Cemetery where the burial will take place with Joanna at 11 am.

Canale-Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com