Michele Wendel

1948 - 2025

Michele Carroll Wendel passed away at home on June 22, 2025, surrounded by the family she loved. Born on January 19, 1948, in Port Jervis, New York, Michele was the daughter of Walt and Shirley Carroll and the sibling to Sally (Chuck) Bultmann and Bruce (Kristin) Carroll. Michele spent her early years growing up in New York, where fond memories of family trips to the Jersey shore stayed with her throughout her life. Michele's family moved to Spokane, Washington when she was 10 years old. Michele attended University Elementary, Bowdish Junior High, and University High School. She was a cheerleader, acted in the school plays and was honored as a Spokane Lilac Princess. Michele met her future husband, Bob Wendel, in the fifth grade. They grew up together, attended all the same schools, and built a lifetime of memories side by side. On June 20, 1970, they were married, beginning a partnership marked by deep affection, mutual admiration and unwavering respect. After graduating from the University of Washington, Michele and Bob built a life filled with purpose and joy. Among the things she took the most pride in was their home on Priest Lake in northern Idaho. Michele and the family collected the smooth river rock for the cabin's fireplace from nearby Soldier Creek, creating an enduring symbol of her strength, resilience and the family she built with such love. Michele was the heart of her family. She poured herself into raising her children, volunteering at their schools, and creating a home where love and kindness were constant. She adored being "Mom," and later, "Nonni," cherishing every moment with her grandchildren. Michele's interests reflected her gentle, joyful spirit. She loved vacationing in Kauai, tending to her garden, playing golf with her dad and later her friends, kids and grandkids, doting on the family's Westies, and hosting Thanksgiving-her favorite holiday. She was also a devoted Gonzaga basketball fan. She is survived by her husband, Bob; Her daughter Nicole and son-in-law Graham Pederson, and their children Quinn and Nolan; and by her son Kyle Wendel, his partner Cassandra Western, and his children Lula and Flynn. Her family was her greatest pride. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her influence lives on in the family she raised, the friendships she built, the traditions she created, and the lake home where her spirit will always rest.