Wendell James Lewis

Wendell James Lewis (aka “Big Lewis”), a lifelong Rondo Avenue resident, was born on May 12, 1933, in Luther, Oklahoma to Yancy and Lucille Lewis. Wendell peacefully departed this earth on August 29, 2024, to join family and friends who met him with open arms at the Pearly Gates. There’s been a welcome party in heaven ever since his arrival. 

Wendell was a loving husband, father, uncle, grandpa, great and great-great grandpa and friend.  Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing or meeting him and/or being in his company, enjoyed his quick welcoming smile, sense of humor, camaraderie and easygoing nature. He was so much fun to be with.  

Traveling with O’Neil Amusements bought Wendell to St. Paul, Minnesota’s Como Park. Boy oh boy, did we kids luck up!  From there, Wendell, alongside his friend to the end, Jim Hayes, retired from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) after 20 years of service. Post retirement, Wendell was a friendly fixture at the Royal Zeno Shoe Shine at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. 

An avid fisherman, Wendell loved to be on his boat on one or the other of the land of 10,000 lakes and was also a faithful Minnesota Vikings fan.  

Wendell was preceded in death by his father and mother (Yancy and Lucille Lewis); step-mother Clara aka Ms. Carrie; siblings James, Clinton, Ethel, Dorothy and Rudolph; sisters-in-law Flemmie, Goldie, Geneva, Zaddie and Georgia; brothers-in-law A. T., Samuel, Willie and Philman; children Michele and Gregory; son-in-law Carvillia; and great-great granddaughter Mya. 

He will be sorely missed and his memory will be cherished by his survivors:  Wife, Sara; children Debbie (Gregory); Geneva; Donald; Michael (Natalie); Leslie; and Lester; grandchildren; great grand children; great-great grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and many friends. 

Homegoing celebration will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. , with visitation one hour prior at Spielman Mortuary, 344 University Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota 55103. 

Private interment.