James Wendland

James was born June 5, 1940 in New Ulm, MN to Eugene Elvia (Kassuelke) Wendland. Jim graduated from Gaylord High School in 1958. Jim married Janice Doerre in May of 1961. She preceded him in death in October of 1988. Jim married Carol (Mathiowetz) Wurtzberger on June 30, 1990. He worked for Soil Conservation Service for 3 years and then for the Department of Agriculture FSA for 34 years, retiring as District Director in October of 1996. Jim also operated the family farm from 1972-1980 and operated Wendland's Lawn Service. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Jim also loved playing cards, golfing, hunting and tractor collecting. Jim's endless energy kept him busy. He was a member of the Sleepy Eye Golf Club Board, President of Home Cemetery Board and member of Trinity Lutheran Church. James M. Wendland, age 67, of Sleepy Eye, MN died Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester after suffering a severe stroke. Jim is survived by his wife, Carol of Sleepy Eye, son, James, Jr. (Cathy) of Wasilla, AK, daughter, Joy Mathiowetz of Springfield, step son, Brad Wurtzberger of Nicollet, step daughter, Vicky (Chris) Larson of Sleepy Eye, six grandchildren, sisters and brothers-in-law, Evie (Chuck) McGonigle of Gaylord, Darlene (Roger) Klotz of New Ulm and Paulette (Jeff) Kuehn of Cumberland, WI. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and wife Janice.