Wesley James Vanderwell

1965 – 2026

Wesley Vanderwell passed away unexpectedly on January 6, 2026, just shy of his 61st birthday. He was born in January 1965 and lived a life marked by creativity, kindness, and a uniquely memorable personality.

Wesley was predeceased by his father, Harry Vanderwell. He leaves behind his loving mother, Myrna; his sisters, Wendy (Keith) and Michele (Frank); his brother, Blaine; his nephews, Joel and Brandon; along with many other family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

Known for his prankster sense of humor, Wesley had a way of surprising people with his wit and playful spirit. Though an introvert by nature, he carried a bold personality that left a lasting impression on those who truly knew him. He was an “idea man” through and through—someone who loved imagining, designing, and building. From spending hours building with Lego as a child to later creating architectural blueprints purely for the joy of design, Wesley’s creativity never faded.

He loved fishing, though famously he would never clean or eat a fish. Instead, his true passion lay in crafting unique and intricate fish flies, a skill for which he was well known and admired. His patience and artistry reflected the thoughtful way he approached the things he loved.

Wesley had a deep affection for animals, especially dogs. Many called him a “dog whisperer,” as dogs seemed instantly drawn to him. He rarely went anywhere without a pocket full of treats, always ready to make a new four-legged friend.

Above all, Wesley will be remembered for his generous heart. He was always willing to help at a moment’s notice and was a loyal, steady friend to those he cared about. His presence, creativity, and quiet devotion to others will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.