Wendell Thede Obituary

Wendell's Funeral Service Video

Wendell G. Thede (Red), age 85, passed away October 25, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his loving family, due to complications of Alzheimer disease. Wendell fought the good fight and has received his crown of righteousness from his Lord Jesus Christ. Wendell was born on August 25, 1940 to Lonson R. and Esther E. (Freeman) Thede, on the family farm located in the Town of Maine, Outagamie County, Wisconsin.

After graduating from Shiocton High School, Wendell worked at several car dealership garages as a mechanic while attending an apprenticeship for auto mechanics at Fox Valley Tech. On December 11, 1967, he began as a mechanic for Kimberly Clark Corporation where he remained until his retirement on June 30, 2001. He enjoyed tinkering in his shop, working on his antique vehicles and tractors. He also loved being outdoors taking the time to enjoy God's creations, "Taking time to smell the roses". Wendell loved to visit with people, and like all the Thede's, was an expressive person to visit with, using sayings such as "Finer than frog's hair", "Baby Doll", "Hi De Ho", wanting to be different from the crowd. He belonged to an area tractor club for several years where he participated in several parades and plow days with his friend Eugene Becker.

Wendell was a devoted member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church since 1983. He served the Lord and the church in multiple ways and enjoyed the fellowship of the congregation.

Wendell married his "sweetheart" Pamela Tackman on June 11, 1977. They were blessed with two wonderful children Brythe (Kathryn) Thede and Andrea (whom he nicknamed Peeper) (John) Payton and grandson, Zachariah (who he called Taylor) (Jodi) Thede.

Wendell had 14 siblings of whom sister Betty Rogne and brother Colin (Diane) Thede survive. He also is survived by his brother-in-law Jack (Judy) Tackman.

One of Wendell's favorite quotes was "Where there is faith, there is love: where there is love, there is peace: where there is peace, there is God: and where there is God, there is no need", Leo Tolstoy

We sincerely thank his care givers Carolyn, Marybeth and the staff from ThedaCare Hospice. Words can never thank you enough for what you do and have done for our family.

The Funeral Service for Wendell will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at St. John's Lutheran Church in the Town of Center. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening, October 29, 2025 at the church and again on Thursday morning at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial gifts may be directed to St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church located in the Town of Center.