Thomas "Whale" Wendt, 84

Our friend Whale is flying free. Thomas Lytle Wendt was born to Otto Carl and Idamae Lytle Wendt, on Jan. 6, 1939, in Harbor Beach, Michigan.

He passed away Aug. 16, 2023, at Heritage Place in Kalispell, at the age of 84.

He served his country in the United States Army following graduation from Croswell-Lexington High School. He also attended St.Clair County Community College.

He is survived by one son, Bret; two daughters, Tracy and Tiffany. Two sisters, Margie Campbell of Lexington, Michigan; and Gwen Gadaire of Mooresboro, North Carolina. One brother, Terry (Pam) Hewitt of Bechtlesville, Pennsylvania. Along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Donna and Diane.

He loved skydiving and is well known by his skydiving name, Whale. He made more than 3,400 jumps before an accident interfered with his passion. After recovering, he left Chicago and drove to the drop zone he treasured, Skydive Lost Prairie in Marion, where his skydiver heart was happy on the ground.

Several years ago, when pneumonia threatened his life, it was skydivers and neighbors who kept him going. When failing health called for him to have nursing care, he moved to Heritage Place. He met the challenge of a new lifestyle head-on and said, "I have everything I need right here."

He had a heart for others, was humorous, compassionate, respectful, and humble. He loved his family, and he loved his sky family.

Tom's ashes will be scattered over Skydive Lost Prairie by his skydive friends during a skydive dedicated to him.