Robert R. Wendell

Robert Wendell, of Aurora, OH, passed away at the age of 84 on May 10, 2024 after a valiant fight with cancer.  Bob leaves his wife of almost 40 years, Lis Wendell (nee Kristensen), children Gitte J. Blanchet, Kelly Kay Browne, Daniel Wendell and seven grandchildren.  He is also survived by sister Beth Wendell, following the passing of brother Bill and sister Linda, all children of Cara and William Wendell, formerly of Eastlake, Ohio.

A graduate of Kent State University (KSU), Bob majored in Architecture and Theatre with Bachelor and Masters Degrees. He followed his father, William, as a 32nd degree Mason of Lodge 302 in Painesville, Ohio. His social life was influenced strongly by his wife, Lis, which led to life-long Danish friendships in both the US and Denmark - including the 1999 founding of the inactive Danish and American Men of Ohio (the DAM Club).

His professional careers began with Cleveland, OH architect, C. R. Bingham, and the world of Industrial Theatre, designing and producing live US touring productions with Wilding, Inc. in Detroit, MI. Returning to KSU in Kent, Ohio in 1974, he was granted the Harry G. Wright Fellowship to work on his PhD in Theatre (Industrial Theatre: A Procedural Description, 1975). This was interrupted to pursue marketing and management opportunities in the corporate offices of The Smithers Company of Kent, Ohio. He ultimately became a company partner and Vice President of Pacific Operations, including work in the company’s Smither-Oasis Europe Division, a period wherein he met his wife, Lis, in Copenhagen, Denmark. Bob left The Smithers Company in 1990.

Retired, Bob briefly served on the board of Coleman Professional Services in Kent, OH. He enjoyed painting, writing, DAM club friends and family – notably with Boston, MA grandchildren, Thomas and Ella, with whom he led the fictional country of WenBlanland, holding various titles and discussions on life and the importance of doing “good things”. He wanted it said that he “just really liked being with people he loved, and enjoyed turning strangers into friends.”

A memorial service will be held at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St. Kent, Ohio on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 2:00 PM officiated by Rev. William Wendell.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, OH 44240.