Philip Noel Wendell

Philip Noel Wendell, 81 of Sun City, AZ and formerly of Auburn, MI passed away November 17, 2018 with his family at his side.

Philip was born December 26, 1936 in Columbus, OH to the Rev. Clyde and Opal Wendell. He graduated from Harding High School, Marion, OH in 1954. He then graduated from Asbury College, Wilmore, KY in 1958. It was here that he met his sweetheart, Sally Robertson. Philip and Sally were married August 2, 1958 in Saginaw.

He began teaching for the Bay City School system in 1965 and taught music/band at McAlear Sawden Intermediate, Central High School and Western Intermediate schools. He was a beloved teacher earning Band Teacher of the year and MSBOA director of the year awards. He retired in 1994. While in Auburn, he was recognized as Citizen of the Year. He gave of his time on the volunteer fire department and was a city commissioner for several years. He was also the choir director for many years at the Auburn United Methodist Church. He enjoyed driving bus for Greyhound, Indian Trails and Mitchell bus lines during his summers off from teaching. Upon moving to AZ, he was very involved in the Desert Brass and Sun City Concert bands where he could be found happily playing his tuba. He sang in the choir at Willowbrook United Methodist Church.

Philip was a friend to all and never met a stranger. His gift of gab and jokes will be long remembered by those whose lives he touched.

Philip is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sally; daughter, Susan (Ken) Gokee; son, Thomas (Kimberly) Wendell; brother, Dan (Brenda) Wendell; sister-in-law, Judith (Ken) Howay; grandchildren, Ryan Gokee, Kiersten (Adam) Stowe, and Nicholas (Sarah) Wendell; great grandchildren, Zandra Gokee, Dani Stowe and Elizabeth Clark; a niece and two nephews also survive.

A celebration of life service will be held in January 2019 in Arizona. Those wishing to express their sympathy may do so by donating to Hospice of the Valley Thunderbird PCU (13614 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ, 85304) or a Hospice of their choosing.

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