Henry "Captain Buddy" Wendel, 91, of Riverview, Florida passed away June 15, 2022 peacefully at home surrounded by family and wife Darlene of 46 years. He was preceded in death by his son Scotty, his parents Henry and Hazel, and his brother George. Henry is survived by twelve children (Patti Anne, John, Wink, Buggy, Eileen, Lisa, Bud, Shawn, Wendy, Heidi, Brooke, and Jamey) 24 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, and his sister Dorothy.

He was born in Palatka, Florida and was raised on Drayton Island located on Lake George on the west side of the Saint Johns River's main channel. Henry moved to New Jersey when he was 14 and worked as a messenger boy at a Singer sewing machine factory. He joined the United States Navy April 2, 1948. Henry served honorably during the Korean War aboard the USS Consolation (AH-15). He earned the Good Conduct Medal, Navy Occupation Medal (Asia Clasp), Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Ribbon. Henry's Tug Boat Captain career started in 1965 and he served for over 40 years in Tampa, Florida. He had superior knowledge of international maritime shipping.

Henry loved children, cooking, fishing, music, and spending time with family. His handsome smile and charming spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. Henry's viewing will be on Wednesday, June 29, 5:00pm to 8:00pm and Memorial service on Thursday, June 30 at 10:00am at the funeral home (burial ceremony will start at 1:30pm at Sarasota National Cemetery).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Children's Heart Foundation at the following link: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E12419&id=119

Please be sure to visit the family's online guestbook