James Edward Wendt

James Edward Wendt, 88, of Litchfield, passed away Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 8:55 p.m. at Litchfield Health & Rehab in Litchfield, IL.

He was born December 29, 1934 in Evergreen Park, IL, the son of Roy Edward and Lorene Katherine (Knutson) Wendt. Having a summer wedding, James and his bride, Betty Ann Zeaske, were wed on June 5th, 1955 in Peru, IL, and she survives. He was an honorable veteran of the U.S. Army - SP4 - Signal Corps, 1957 – 1959. 

Mr. Wendt was a member of the Teamsters Local 705 in Chicago. He drove for Northshore Truck Lines, Buske Lines, Schmidt Trucking, and Nestlé Corp.  James accomplished the Million Mile award while driving for Nestlé Corp., as he drove all over the United States and Canada. 

When he wasn’t working over the road, James loved spending time with his family and traveling with his wife.  He was also a member of the Mt. Moriah Lodge #51 A.F. & A.M. for 50 years, Order of the Eastern Star in Peru, IL, and of the Litchfield Boat & Ski Club.

In addition to his wife, Betty, Mr. Wendt is survived by their son Gary (Colleen) Wendt of Carlinville, their daughter Susan (Donald) Sperry of La Grange, NC.

3 grandchildren, Rory Sperry, Shawn Sperry, and Christine (Shane) Bray.

2 great-grandchildren, Carter Bray & Roman Bray.

Mr. Wendt is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Wendt. 

Funeral Services for James will be at the First Presbyterian Church in Litchfield, starting at 12:00 Noon, Friday, October 20, 2023. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services.  Rev. Gary Schwab will officiate. Private family inurnment will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery. The family asks for memorials to be directed to First Presbyterian Church in Litchfield. 

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