Willis Wendell III

Willis Wendell III

Willis Wendell III, a resident of Newmarket, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026. He was born on April 2, 1942, in Amsterdam, New York, the son of Willis Wendell II and Martha Jean Machold.

Willis is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne Wells Roux, with whom he shared a partnership marked by adventure, travel, and humor. He was a caring father to his two children, Jennifer W. Benton and Willis Wendell IV, and a proud grandfather to Henry and Madeleine Benton. He is also survived by his brother, Jay Wendell, and his sister, Andrea Wendell-Strauss.

Willis graduated from Bethlehem Central High School in Bethlehem NY. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Middlebury College, where he was a member of the ROTC and the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Willis later completed his MBA at Columbia University and his education laid the foundation for a long professional career spanning materials management, manufacturing, and consulting attaining a role as Vice President at a top global management consulting firm.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army Infantry, achieving the rank of Lieutenant. During his service, he was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska, an experience that deepened his appreciation for the outdoors and adventure. He completed his service with an honorable discharge.

An accomplished athlete, Willis was a competitive downhill and cross-country skier in his younger years, served as a member of the ski patrol, and remained a lifelong recreational skier. He was equally passionate about sailing, both competitively and for leisure, completing multiple long offshore passages, including two trans-Atlantic crossings, spending extensive time exploring the Mediterranean, and participating in the Newport–Bermuda Race. He also excelled in collegiate track and field as a high jumper.

Beyond athletics, Willis was endlessly curious and hands-on. He enjoyed carpentry and woodworking, had a natural aptitude for mechanics, and found great pleasure in reading and lifelong learning. Musically, he played the coronet and harmonica.

Willis will be remembered for his great sense of humor, affable nature, and deep commitment to principle and integrity. He was a caring husband and father, a loyal friend, and a man who truly loved adventure-whether on snow, sea, or through new ideas and experiences. His warmth, curiosity, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

A celebration of Willis's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages honoring his memory by embracing adventure, lifelong learning, and time spent with loved ones.