Wendell Lee Verkler, 83, of Cissna Park passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at his home. He was born on January 25, 1941 in Cissna Park, a son of Elmer and Lillian (Word) Verkler. He married Donna Hari on April 11, 1963 in Cissna Park and she survives.
Other survivors include two sons, Richard (Maria) Verkler of Cissna Park and David (Maria) Verkler of Bourbonnais; one daughter, Sara (John) Houston of Paxton; six grandchildren, Samantha (David) Bougher of Lowell, IN, Melannie (Nathan) Verkler Woodward of Savoy, AJ Verkler of Bourbonnais, Lucas Verkler of Bourbonnais, Joshua Houston of Paxton, and Jeremiah Houston of Paxton; two great-grandchildren, Spencer Bougher of Lowell, IN and Quentin Bougher of Lowell, IN; three brothers, Randell (Jo) Verkler of Cissna Park, Jerry (Maren) Verkler of Clarksville, TN, and Ken (Dianne) Verkler of Bloomington; and two sisters, Wanda Cline of Cissna Park and Linda (Jim) Seidel of Cissna Park.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Russell Verkler; one sister, Brenda Pitzer; one brother-in-law, Bill Cline; and one sister-in-law, Diane Verkler.
Wendell was owner of Verkler Construction since 1970 having built many homes and designing custom cabinetry throughout Iroquois, Kankakee, Vermilion, Ford and Champaign Counties. He earned several awards for building, including the People’s Choice Award in the Kankakee Parade of Homes. Wendell was a member of the Cissna Park Fire Department for thirty-six years. He served as a fireman, Assistance Chief, Fire Chief and Trustee/President of the Fire Protection District. He was a member of the Christian Bible Church. Wendell enjoyed gardening, canning, and puzzles. He loved family gatherings and spending time with his grandkids.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the Christian Bible Church in Cissna Park with Pastor Paul Thomason officiating. Burial will follow in the Cissna Park Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Cissna Park.
Memorials may be given to the Cissna Park Fire Protection District, Christian Bible Church or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.
Please share a memory of Wendell at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.
