Bruce Wendle, 84

Bruce Wendle, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Sagle, Idaho on Tuesday, March 3.

Bruce was born in 1935 in Sandpoint to Dr. Neal and Gladys Wendle (Brower). Bruce graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1953 where he was active in student government, track and football.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Shirley (Brixen);, and their children, Kelley and Todd, five grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He also is survived by brothers Mark Wendle (Betty), Jan Wendle (Molly); a brother-in-law Steve Brixen (Grace); and many nieces and nephews.

Bruce and Shirley had their first date in April 1951. After high school, they spent a year at The University of Idaho. They eloped in 1953 and spent two years in the Army in Germany. Bruce returned to Moscow to graduate in 1960 with a degree in chemical engineering.

Bruce began his career with DuPont Chemical Company, which led to his involvement in the plastics industry. Bruce was a pioneer in the development of structural foam. He served as president of the Society of Plastics Engineers for many years.

The family moved to the east coast, the midwest and eventually to the Seattle area. After 25 years in the Seattle area, Bruce retired and they moved home to Sandpoint in 2000.

Over the years, Bruce was a volunteer with Boy Scouts, Junior Achievement, The Red Cross and AARP driver education. He donated enough blood to earn his 5 gallon award! He was very active in the Sandpoint Senior Center, serving on the board as president, calling the numbers at bingo night and he was also a volunteer tax preparer for AARP. Bruce enjoyed lunch, Friday breakfast, and bridge games on Tuesday afternoons.

A private family service will be held later at the Wendle family plot at the Hope Cemetery. The family would like to thank Kindred Hospice for their amazing care and support.

Coffelt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Donations can be made to his favorite Sandpoint Senior Center in his name