Wendell Hedges Obituary (2026)

R. Wendell Hedges Jr., 89, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, in Yakima, Washington. Wendell was born on July 25, 1937, in Wenatchee, Washington, to Gladys L. Crutcher and Ralph Wendell Hedges. He was proud of his Stemilt Hill roots, having been raised on the family farm, where he developed the strong work ethic and appreciation for family that would stay with him throughout his life. After graduating from Wenatchee High School, Wendell proudly served four years in the United States Navy as a Naval Airman stationed at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. A devoted patriot, he remained deeply proud of his military service and his country throughout his life. Wendell built a successful career in real estate property management, owning and operating Wendell Hedges Inc. for more than 30 years. Never one to sit still, he later founded Eastside Home Inspection Services, proving that retirement was never quite his style. In 1986, Wendell married the love of his life, Lynn. Together they shared forty wonderful years of marriage, building a close-knit blended family centered on love, laughter, and unwavering support. He was a devoted father to five children and took immense pride in his family. Family was the cornerstone of Wendell's life. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his six grandchildren. For many years, Wendell and Lynn hosted a special week-long Fourth of July vacation with their grandchildren under one simple rule: "No Parents Allowed." Those treasured gatherings created countless memories, stories, and traditions that continue to bring smiles to the entire family today. Family was deeply important to Wendell. He shared a special bond with his sisters, Gail (Ron) Myers and Becky Carlson, and treasured time with his extended family. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Nolan Carlson, and is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and loved ones. Wendell had a lifelong passion for soccer. He coached his sons, played recreational soccer well into his sixties, and later enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines. He was equally passionate about motorcycles and the friendships that came with them. An avid Ducati enthusiast, Wendell spent many years riding with close friends, creating countless memories along the way. Some of his happiest moments were spent on the open road, sharing adventures, laughter, and camaraderie. After a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease, Wendell passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Above all, Wendell will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend. His love of family, loyal friendships, adventurous spirit, and unwavering devotion to those he loved leave a lasting legacy that will be cherished for generations. Wendell is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Lynn Hedges; his children and their spouses, Dane and Sarah Hedges, Craig and Paige Hedges, Mark Hedges, Kim and Joe Pratt, and James Adams; his six cherished grandchildren, Emily and Steven Pratt, Cole and Will Hedges, and Lexi and Lindsay Hedges; his sisters, Gail (Ron) Myers and Becky Carlson. Wendell’s service will be Tuesday August 25, 1:30 pm at Tahoma National Cemetery located at 18600 SE 240th Street in Kent, Washington.