Rodney ONeal Wendt, 83
Rodney ONeal Wendt, 83 of Kalispell, earned his heavenly wings on March 21, 2024, after battling heart disease for many years.
He was born on August 22, 1940, to Orisse (Eckelberry) and George Wendt in Kalispell. He attended Deer Park Elementary School and graduated from Flathead County High School in 1959. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served for four years. After serving his country, Rodney joined his father, George, working on the family farm. While maintaining the farm, Rodney also worked in a variety of jobs. In 1980, he began his tenure of 20 years at the Anaconda Aluminum Plant (CFAC).
Rodney met the love of his life, Ilo Rossing, in 1965. After two years of courtship, they married on July 22nd, 1967 and shared 56 beautiful years together. They were blessed with two daughters, Sonya and Karla.
Rod retired in 2000 after his first open heart surgery. His retirement years were filled with tinkering on the family farm, playing cards and bowling with good friends and family, traveling to exciting destinations with Ilo, his sister Georgia and her husband Hal, and following his grandchildren’s many sporting events.
He was preceded to heaven by his parents, George and Orisse Wendt; brothers, Richard and Donald Wendt; sister Georgia Ruth Howell; and son-in-law Daniel Hensley; among numerous other loved ones.
He is survived by the love of his life, Ilo Wendt; their children, Sonya Hensley of Kalispell, and Karla (Chuck) Werk of Kalispell; five grandchildren, Chloe Hensley, Christian Hensley, George (Erika) Werk, Kaitlyn Werk, and Molly Werk; and two great-grandchildren, Wade and Charlie Rose Werk.
Rod always put his family first and proudly served as a parental figure to many when needed. He was a proud and devoted man of faith. His quick wit, contagious laugh, warm smile, loving heart, and caring ways will be missed by all.
The service will be held at 3 p.m. on March 27, at Calvary Lutheran Church.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the healthcare workers for their kind support and care during Rodney’s illness. Remembrances can be made in the form of contributions to the American Heart Foundation in Rodney’s name or Calvary Lutheran Church.
Arrangements are under the care of Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home.