Capt. John Merrit "Wondy" Wondergem U.S. Navy (Ret)

Captain John Merrit "Wondy" Wondergem, U.S. Navy (Ret) passed away at his residence on June 7, 2014 with Shirley, his loving wife of 67 years by his side. Wondy was born in Boston, Massachusetts on November 13, 1922 and lived in Metairie for the past 44 years. He was a leader in both the military and his personal life, winning the respect and admiration of all who knew him. Wondy began his long distinguished military career by enlisting in the United States Navy in 1942 and retired after 32 years of service. He was awarded the following certificates and medals: Joint Service Commendation; Pre-Pearl Harbor; American Theatre; Pacific Theatre; China Occupation; World War II Victory Medal; National Defense Service Medal; China Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal. While as commander of Helicopter Squadron HS3 in the Atlantic Fleet, Commander Wondergem recovered Scott Carpenter in the "Sigma 7" space capsule of Project Mercury. He also was commander of Helicopter Squadron HS1 and Air Group 50 in Key West, FL. Wondy was the Navigator and then the Executive Officer of the Aircraft Carrier, USS Wasp. Captain Wondergem retired in 1974. His last duty assignment was Chief of Staff of the Eighth Naval District in Algiers. Throughout his life Wondy was a "ham" radio operator, call sign, K5KR, and an active member and past president of the Delta DX Association. Wondy is survived by his beloved wife Ruth Shirley Watts Wondergem, whom he met in New Orleans while in flight training at Loyola; a son, Glen V. Wondergem of Folsom (Debbie); two daughters, Terry W. Willenbrock of Richardson, TX (Eric) and Diane Callaway Taylor of Slidell, LA; nine grandchildren, John Wondergem (Julie), Austin Callaway (Sarah), Jason Willenbrock (Holly), Katie Callaway, Julie Willenbrock, Emily Taylor, David Porter (Sarah), Penni Sperier (Joey) and Keely Daigle (Steven); and 14 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Sheryl W. Czepluch (Ralf); and his parents, Katherine Bollmann and John Leonard Wondergem. Wondy was a loving family man who cherished his family. He and Shirley took many trips to see the world and enjoyed life to the fullest. He established many wonderful friendships during his life's journey and will be sadly missed by his family and friends and especially his children and grandchildren whom he guided successfully in life. After all his achievements the greatest thing Wondy accomplished was accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Captain Wondergem was laid to rest, next to his daughter, with military honors in the Garden of Memories Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held at L. A. Muhleisen and Son Funeral Home, 2607 Williams Blvd., Kenner on Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. with a visitation from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. In lieu of the usual remembrances, please consider a donation to Northwood Church, 1500 Hwy 22, Mandeville, LA 70471 with the notation "Royal Kid's Camp Fund" on the memo line, in memory of Wondy. To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.muhleisen.com.