Judith A. Wendel

Judith “Judy” Erich Wendel, 88, formerly of 112 Grandview Road in St. Marys, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Elk Haven Nursing Home, following a lengthy illness.

Born March 23, 1938, in St. Marys, Judy was the daughter of the late Alfred “Fritz” and Edna Filer Erich.

On September 8, 1956, at Queen of the World Church, she married the love of her life, James L. “Jim” Wendel. Together, they shared nearly 70 years of marriage and a lifetime of overcoming hardship, laughter, teamwork, and unwavering devotion, until Jim’s passing in October 2025. 

A lifelong resident of the area, Judy lived her faith as a member of Queen of the World Church. Through the many joys and challenges she encountered throughout her life, her faith remained a constant source of strength and never wavered. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved a good game of cards and rarely passed up the opportunity to play bingo. Judy spent many years working in the school cafeteria and loved cooking and baking for those around her. Whether at home or surrounded by family and friends at Camp Hoochiwawa, there was always a home-cooked meal. She had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, whose companionship brought her great comfort and joy throughout her life. 

Judy is survived by one son, Scott (Shari) Wendel of St. Marys; daughter-in-law, Donna Wendel of St. Marys, who shared a cherished bond with Judy and remained lovingly devoted to her care; three grandchildren, Kati (Eric) Beimel of Ridgway, Kristi (Blane) Krott of Kersey, and Brendan (Tammy) Wendel of St. Marys; as well as two great-grandchildren, Harper and Hank. 

She is also survived by a sister, Kathleen “Katty” Wehler, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Judy was preceded in death by two sons, Alan and Mark Wendel; her sisters, Helen “Tubby” Rhines, Gloria “Binky” Eichmiller, and Shirley Spence Adams; and her brother, John “Jack” Erich. 

Judy’s legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and love. She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish the time they shared with her and the countless memories they made together.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Elk Haven Nursing Home and U.S. Renal Care of St. Marys for the kindness, compassion, and care they provided to her over the past two years.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 on Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 10:00AM with Rev. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, celebrating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. 

There will be no visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 East Eschbach Road, St. Marys, PA 15857, or to Elk Haven Nursing Home, 785 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys, PA 15857.