Steve’s sense of humor, easygoing personality, and epic birthday card drawings—complete with his characteristic signature, “Never say uncle, Steve”—were just a few of his many lovable qualities that come to mind. Beyond his wonderful personality, as his godson I admired the man he was, his accomplishments as an electrical engineer, and the strength with which he stoically lived with his illness for many years. I cherish many memories of Steve and the “Wendler Clan” (as he often referred to his family) visiting Michigan over the years: family Christmases, sledding and playing in the snow, and tubing and waterskiing together in the summer. I am deeply grateful to have been part of Steve’s life and for the influence he had on mine. I will always carry his example and the fond memories we shared.

I first met Steve when he was in high school and I was dating his sister Debbie.  He impressed me as an interesting combination of high school athlete and nerd.  He loved sports and was on the football team but was also passionate about science and electronics.  This was pre-internet, so he quickly became my go to source for sound system, electronics, and science information. 
      Steve's defense job with TI came with a certain amount of mystique and respect in the family as he couldn't talk much about what he did.  It was there that he met his wonderful wife, Susan.
      The Texas Wendler's made the decision to fly "home" to Michigan twice a year.  Their commitment to family grew loving relationships with all of us.  I have fond memories of the young cousins and their shenanigans while the adults enjoyed lively conversations.
     Steve approached his health situation head on and often with a sense of humor.  Even with the challenges he faced, he never changed who he was.  I admired that about him.  Rest in peace, Steve.

Celebrating Grandma Wendler's 80th birthday in 2008 at Pine Lake.

Debbie & Bill and Tom & I were fortunate to visit Dallas for a few days to celebrate Steve's 64th birthday. He was feeling pretty good so it was a fun, happy day. What great memories we have being together with Steve, Susan & Eric!

As the fourth child of Carl and Vernette Wendler, Steve was a nice addition.  Always an amiable sort, Steve was fun to be around.  Whether he was doing his magic tricks or getting stuck in a clothes hamper playing hide and seek with his older siblings, it was always a good time.
I will miss Steve's greeting cards which were often his brand of dry humor.  He often added an intricate drawing!
No one in the family was surprised Steve became an engineer.  As a kid he was always tinkering, taking old, small appliances apart and putting them back together.
Then there were the sports Steve enjoyed, playing football, basketball and softball as a teen.  Although Steve couldn't participate in sports in his later years, he followed the teams he loved.
As Steve and Susan made the best of his frequent hospitalizations and various procedures over the last eleven years, I remember him telling me that this wasn't the life he envisioned for himself and family, but he'd take it.
I will miss Steve greatly, but he will always live in my heart.

Christmas 2011 in Michigan. Steve sneaking in on the holiday photo w/his Mom and sisters!!

Steve with his father, Carl, and brother, Jim, at his sister Debbie's wedding in 1977.

I mourn the passing of Steve, my brother-in-law who I will greatly miss. I have many fond memories of family Christmases with the Wendler’s and fun in the summer at Pine Lake.  He was a role model and a wonderful family man, always putting his loved ones first. With his witty sense of humor, he brought joy and laughter to every gathering. His caring and supportive nature touched the lives of all who knew him.

OBITUARY

Steven Robert Wendler

May 25, 1960 – February 15, 2026

Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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