Marjorie Rae Wendel

Marjorie Rae Wendel, 84, passed away peacefully at home in Redding, California on February 5, 2011. She was born to Raymond and Grace Sloat on July 8, 1926 in Newark, New Jersey. She was raised with one older sister, Doris. Marjorie's father was an attorney in New Jersey until the great depression, when he lost his job. As a young girl her family moved to Long Beach, California where her father ran a car dealership. In high school she was active in extra curricular activities like choir and the french club. After high school, Marjorie attended Long Beach Community College, where she met the love of her life, Donald Alph Wendel. They both transferred to U.C.L.A. They were married then graduated from college. Their son, John was born in 1951. Next came their little girl, Patricia, in 1954. When her children were small, Marjorie worked for Disneyland. Later she began her career in the food industry. The two renewed their vows on their 25th wedding anniversary among family and friends and in 1985, Marjorie and Donald were finally able to retire together. They enjoyed spending their time traveling. They have been cross country several times, went to Tahoe yearly and took a second honeymoon to Hawaii. In 1990 Donald passed away. Marjorie continued traveling, seizing the opportunity to travel to Alaska with family.

Marjorie loved birds, nature and the outdoors in general. Music was her passion and she loved spending time playing the organ. But, most important in her life was her family. She was a devoted wife and mother. An inspiration to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She would make them bunny shaped pancakes and made a point to attend every special event they were involved in. She will be greatly missed and leaves behind a beautiful legacy.

Marjorie is preceded in death by her husband Donald Alph Wendel; son John Raymond Wendel; and sister Doris "Bunny" Wilson.

She is survived by her daughter Patricia L. Torrieri; grandchildren Angelina Torrieri, Nicholas Torrieri and his wife Sheri, Mike Torrieri and his wife Christy, Cristina Torrieri, Diana Nunez, Cathy Weiser, Eric Wendel; great grandchildren Karina Hornbuckle, David Hornbuckle, Marissa Hornbuckle, Brooklyn Torrieri, Destiny Hornbuckle, Troy Torrieri, Squishy Torrieri and many other great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

Services have been held privately. Arrangements are in the care of Lawncrest Chapel (530-222-1587).