James Emmett Wendel

James was born on August 13, 1948, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was a man who truly enjoyed being around people and valued time spent with family, friends, and loved ones. He especially cherished time with his wife Karen, his children, and his grandchildren.

He enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life including golf, playing cards, fishing, building projects, and working in the yard. Those who knew him will remember his love of conversation, his friendliness, and the joy he found simply being around others.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jaime Wendel; his brother, Billy Mesnard; his father, Harold Wendel; his mother, Christine Welcome; and his stepmother, Betty Wendel.

James is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Karen Wendel; his children Johnathan Wendel, Jenny Sterner and her husband John Sterner, and Jeffrey Wendel and his wife Shelby Wendel. He is also survived by his grandchildren Clayton Sterner, Hailey Sterner, Crew Wendel, and Margo Wendel.

He is also survived by his brothers Ronnie Wendel and Larry Wendel, as well as his stepsons Sean Tucker and his wife Ashley Tucker, and Joshua Tucker and his wife Jessica Tucker, along with their children Ethan Tucker, Colton Tucker, and Henley Tucker.

Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, followed by funeral services at 10:00 a.m., at Newcomer’s Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64133.

Burial will follow at Floral Hills Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri.