Richard "Smokey" Wendell

Richard "Smokey" Wendell was born in New York City on February 21 1945; he passed peacefully at home on March 2 2025. He was a loving husband to Maryanne, father to Michelle Wendell, Heidi Wendell (Ed Roarty), Jessica Fusello, and Cody Wendell (Maria Wendell), grandfather to Julian Wendell, brother to Arvilla Woodington, brother-in-law to Richard Hofmann (Laraine Hofmann), family to Kenny Switalski, and a loving uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
Smokey was a man whose life was as full of adventure as it was of kindness. Though the years may say 80, anyone who knew him would say he was the youngest "80 year old" they ever knew.
He started his career in law enforcement and the Secret Service before finding his true calling in the entertainment business. Smokey spent over three decades working as a road manger for Joe Walsh. Smokey shared a deep bond with Joe. Their relationship transcended work - it was a true brotherhood. Smokey knew just about everyone on the road, and to him they weren't just colleagues - they were family.
Despite traveling for work, Smokey's heart was always at home. No matter where he was, his family was his first priority. His pride and joy was officially becoming a grandfather. Smokey and Maryanne shared a deep loving bond and remained best friends until the day he passed.
Smokey had a an incredible gift: he got along with everyone. His wit and humor were sharp, his stories legendary (the stories were often "extended") and he was a jack of all trades. We always joked that if you needed a plane, he'd have one ready in minutes.
His generosity, humor and energy made him impossible to forget. He lived life to the fullest, never wasting a moment, and in doing so, he left an unforgettable mark on those fortunate enough to know him.