C.W. was born at home in Bellville, on Feb. 1, 1930, to Adolph and Marie Wendt. One of eight siblings, he was raised in a household grounded in hard work, devotion, and community. He graduated from Bellville High School and proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

He dedicated his career to public service, beginning with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). He later served as the County Surveyor for Austin County, then returned to TXDOT in Colorado County, where he remained until retirement. He took great pride in providing for his family and approached his work with integrity and diligence.

C.W. never met a stranger. Whether camping, fishing, or traveling, he had a gift for storytelling and an infectious sense of humor. He was happiest when surrounded by family, friends, and laughter.

A devoted member of the Church of Christ, C.W.’s deep Christian faith guided every aspect of his life. He lived by example— kind, generous, and steadfast in his beliefs.

On June 23, 1951, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth “Bitty” Goodnight. Their 62-year marriage was built on mutual respect, joy, and shared purpose. They raised their family in Bellville before

■ WENDT, 7 Continued from 2

Wendt

settling in Columbus, Texas, in 1980.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bitty; his parents; and his seven siblings: Pete, Winifred Winnie, Edith (“Mousie”), Wilbert, Ralph, Harold, and Vernon.

He is survived by his four children; his youngest son, Randy Wendt, his only daughter, Linda English and husband Greg, his oldest son, Ray Wendt and wife Martha (“Sugar”), and his middle son and namesake, Clarence “Butch” Wendt, Jr. and wife Debbie. C.W. was a proud grandfather to Stephan Wendt, Nathan Wendt, Jason Wendt, Christopher Wendt, Wesley Wendt, Philip Wendt, Sara Sanders, Rachael Blasig, Dallas Wendt, and Maysa Wendt; and step-granddaughters Brittany Trochez and Brandy Vaughn. He is also survived by 23 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, and nephews.

He will be remembered as a man of strong faith, sharp wit, and a generous heart. His stories, laughter,

and love for family

will live on in all who knew him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Al Kuhn and wife Anita and Pamela and her husband Richard Perales, cherished family friends whose care and compassion brought great comfort and dignity to C.W. in his final years. Their friendship and kindness will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, Texas. Funeral Service will be Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Henneke Funeral Home with Zeke Flores officiating.

The burial will be in Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery in Bellville, Texas.

The pallbearers are Adam McCullough, Stephan Wendt, Nathan Wendt, Chris Wendt, Jason Wendt, Scott Blasig, Jaxon Wendt, Wesley Wendt, Michael Ragan, and Andrew Ricicar. The honorary pallbearer is Al Kuhn.

Memorials may be given to West Oaks Church of Christ, 214 FM 806, Columbus, TX 78934 or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.