Wendel William Waltz

March 6, 1937 – April 3, 2026

Wendel William Waltz of Vacaville, California, passed away on April 3, 2026, at the age of 89. Born March 6, 1937, in Canton, Ohio, he graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University and began his career at his father's Canton business, Waltz the Camera Man, and succeeded him as president. Later, Wendel managed photo finishing operations in Ohio, North Dakota, Arizona, New York, California, and Utah.

In retirement Wendel dedicated himself to hands-on projects: building an airplane, restoring Model T cars and a 1968 Karmann Ghia, refurbishing a 1948 Cushman scooter, and crafting a sailboat from scratch. When life forced him to downsize the scope of his ambitions, he taught himself to make pens and intricate wooden bowls. He found joy and community through Model T tours and his local Model T clubs, as well as from volunteering for the Red Cross and belonging to Kiwanis.

Wendel is survived by his wife of 34 years, Michele; children Traci (Tony), Todd (Hazzel), Scott, and Keith (Vicki); grandchildren Dakota, Alex, and Anna; brother Ron (Shirley); nieces Marnie Willett and Robin Eisenbrei; and nephew Jason Rhiel. He was predeceased by his first wife, Donna (Rhiel), to whom he was married for 30 years; parents Guy and Bernette Waltz; and sister Barbara.

Wendel will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love of family, and the joy he took in building whatever his imagination fancied.