Charles Harry 'C.H.' Wendel, 13 Feb 1939 - 12 Aug 2019

WENDEL, RISDAL

Posted By: Sarah Witte (email)
Date: 8/28/2019 at 13:45:18

Charles H. Wendel, noted author and life-long supporter of Midwest Old Threshers died Monday, August 12, 2019 after battling acute pneumonia and kidney failure.

Charles H. Wendel (Chuck) was born February 13, 1939 to Harry and Letha Risdal Wendel in Eastern Iowa. It was here that he tended to the family farm and first began to foster his love for machines and farm equipment. By trade, he worked as a union electrician. His love for machines manifested itself in the form of his first authored book: Power in the Past published in 1971. He continued writing for more than 40 years, books that document the development and use of farm and industrial machinery. His Gas Engines Since 1872 is still in demand and can never be replicated as most of the research used to write it is no longer available. He is the author of more than 31 books, his last being An Illustrated History of the Steam Locomotive. In recent years Chuck was instrumental in establishing The Printers Hall in Museum B at Old Threshers. He conducted several tours abroad to Europe and Australia. His books are well known world-wide.

He is survived by his wife, Judith, and his children Rosalyn, Lisa, and Steve along with his grandchildren Grace, Ben, Mary Alice, Brett, and Chase.

Anyone who ever met Chuck was often taken aback by both his intellect and passion for learning. Whether it was a quick-witted joke or an interesting antidote about his many travels, there was never a dull moment with Chuck. He loved his family and would do anything for them.

Charles’ funeral will take place Saturday August 17th, 2019 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa beginning at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be held at Raetz Cemetery, rural Atkins. Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 PM on Friday at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street) in Vinton. The family welcomes those who want to gather in prayer for Chuck, knowing he has found peace, and wishes to celebrate the life of such a caring and engaging family member.

There are numerous websites describing Chuck’s contributions to the history of agricultural machines, tractors, and tools. Visit www.chwendel.com for information on Chuck’s life and work.

Phillips Funeral Homes website
An Abbreviated version published in The Gazette on August 15, 2019