Wendell Ross

Wendell David Ross was born on December 22, 1950, to Russell and Naomi Ross in Omaha, NE. He attended Pleasant Hill Elementary and WJ Bryan High School, graduating in 1969.

Wendell was 6’ tall in the 6th grade, so bullies didn’t mess with him. He was the self-appointed activities director of the neighborhood kids, planning baseball or track events, bike races, obstacle courses on their street, and epic snow forts/fights.

Wendell became his sister’s protector from an early age, which was both comforting and annoying when he would chase off all boys who tried to talk to them.

At 12, Wendell worked for his dad doing small engine repair and welding. He used his earnings to buy his first guitar and learned to play on his own. He then taught his sister, Jacquie, how to play six-strings and bass, so they “could be a band”. Other friends joined the “New Generation” and for five years played throughout the Midwest until Wendell joined the Army. He was honorably discharged as a sole surviving son.

While working at JC Penny in Omaha, he met Edith Dillard in a tornado shelter and they married on Sept. 1, 1977. Edie was 12 years his senior with two children. Wendell adopted her son, Mark, and became an excellent father. They rented a farmhouse in central MN until he inherited his uncle Dean’s cabin on Ponto Lake. They later bought a 30-acre property by Pine River and remained there the rest of their lives.

Wendell studied accounting at Brainerd Technical College and worked as an accountant for many years, as well as working at Pequot Tool until retirement.

He fished, hunted, and collected guns and shell casings. He spent time at Trailside Resort helping Janet with docks, boats, and motors and lots of time fishing on the lake. What he loved most was spending time with his grandkids and great-grandkids.

Wendell and Edie were very involved with the Pequot Lakes Baptist Church, helping the library and teaching. He loved old Christian hymns and played his 12-string Martin guitar to God’s glory.

Wendell loved the Lord and knew where he was going. He asks that all his family and friends come to know Jesus and secure their place in Heaven. He’s looking forward to seeing “all of you there.”

Wendell is survived by wife, Edith; son, Mark (Tracey); step-daughter, Deborah (Scott); sister, Jacquie (Lauren); six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and nephews, Chris Svendsen and Cody Fuks.

Wendell is preceded in death by his parents; uncle, Dean; aunt, Peggy; sister, Marilyn Svendsen; brother-in-law, Jim Svendsen; nephew, Bo Fuks; and great-grandson, Zander.

A service will be held at 9 AM on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Pequot Baptist Church.