Bruce W. “Butch” Wendt, 85, of Burlington, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025 at his home, surrounded by loved ones.
Born in Burlington on Oct. 28, 1940, he was the youngest son of Gordon H. and Anita (nee Benning) Wendt. His early life was spent on the family dairy farm in East Troy growing, learning, and working alongside his father and older brother. He attended East Troy public school through the eighth grade, but the demands of farming life kept him from finishing high school. His skill set expanded over time as he spent a handful of years building homes and working as a finish carpenter as well as becoming a very talented and versatile commercial painter capable of everything from basic fleet work to automobiles and high-end semi tractors and trailers. He eventually returned to farming and worked for over 20 years as a field crop farmer for Bolton Farms in East Troy. He enjoyed working the land and anyone who worked with him throughout his adult life would attest to his incredibly hard work ethic, high level of conscientiousness and attention to detail, his jovial nature, and his modesty regarding his many talented abilities.
Outside of work, Bruce’s love of snowmobiling began with his children in the early 1970’s. He also loved fishing whenever possible, motorcycling, limited travel, music, and visiting with people. He even made it to a Redwood State Park in northern California, a highlight in his later years.
Whether old acquaintance, long-time friend, beloved family, or stranger, Bruce had a gift of making everyone feel seen and welcomed, as if one had always been his friend. His gentle kindness touched all who knew him, and his sense of humor put all at ease, being present through even the toughest of times, which he most certainly experienced. He lent a helping hand and a smile to anyone who needed it. Forever young in spirit, his mischievous side fueled his creativity with legendary pranks with his closest friends that will not soon be forgotten. Like many others, he overcame internal and external struggles through his great faith as a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of LDS (Strangite). That faith kept him grounded and guided him in everything he did. Bruce was a great example of how to live a life joyfully and will be deeply missed.
Bruce is survived by his wife Mary; his son Johnny Wendt; daughter Jodi (Monte) Thompson; step-children, Laura (Brady) Farrell, Ben (Chiper) Tennessen, and Charity Farrell; grandkids, Jared Dixon and Jesse (Brittney) Dixon; step-grandkids, Cameron Tennessen, Caitlyn Farrell, Mackenna Farrell, and Magdalina Farrell; great-grandkids, Caydance Dixon, Aiden Dixon, Olivia Dixon and Ella Dixon; sibling Fern Van Beek; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Gordon F Wendt, and sister June A. (Wendt) Kropf.
Bruce’s family would like to send a warm thank you to Badger Hospice, the caring staff at Mercyhealth Hospital and Medical Center-Walworth, and Mercy Lake Geneva Medical Center for their kindness, compassion, and support throughout Bruce’s health trials.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. For online condolences, please visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for Spring 2026.