Wendell Grant Erdmann

Early on November 20, 2023, long-time Springville resident, Wendell Grant Erdmann passed away at the age of ninety-one. He was welcomed home by his wife, Arlene Bellows; his parents, Clarence Dewey Erdmann and Elen Dorothea Poulsen; and siblings, Anna Jean (King), Donald, Jeanette, John, and Kim Lee Erdmann.

Wendell was born on June 26, 1932 in Springville, Utah where he grew up in the family home built by his father. He graduated from Springville High School in 1950. His favorite class was Woodshop where he was able to work with his hands. Wendell had already discovered this natural aptitude within himself as he had previously spent countless hours working in construction with his father. Such experiences not only prepared him for his future career as an electrician, but also enabled him to build a home for his own sweetheart when the time came.

Following high school, Wendell joined the Utah National Guard. He became a heavy equipment operator and eventually attained the rank of sergeant. He also had a job at Mountain Fuel. Eventually, however, Wendell had the opportunity to carry on the family business, Erdmann Electric, as an electrical contractor. As he guided his sons and apprentices, he attempted to instill in them the same strong work ethic that he’d developed for himself. His motto was “no tools, no pay.” A motto that stressed the importance of coming onto the job prepared with the necessary equipment and remaining focused throughout the day, before expecting to receive a paycheck. Wendell continued to be an anchor, a source of knowledge and a teacher to other electricians, until passing the reins over to his sons.

On July 1, 1953, Wendell married Arlene Bellows in the Manti Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Shortly thereafter, Wendell built their first home. Over time, their family grew to include their children: Kenneth, Larry, Jim, Jeff, Karen, and Linda. But before the girls joined the troop of boys, however, the family had moved to the second house Wendell built for Arlene. 

As his faith grew, Wendell’s involvement in church activities also grew. He found numerous opportunities to serve across his ward and stake. He was an Elder’s Quorum President, a Home Teacher, a BSA Scout Master, a High Council member, and a counselor to the Bishop; although, he most enjoyed his position as an ordinance worker in the Provo Temple. 

Wendell is survived by his children and their spouses, fifteen grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren (plus one on the way). He is also survived by his brother, Mike.

Those who knew Wendell were familiar with his quick and witty sense of humor. He had a gift for making people laugh. Yet behind his toothy grin and smiling eyes, was a man whose deep concern for the wellbeing of others led him to provide acts of service and kindness with quiet generosity. As such, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, please consider lending a helping hand to an individual in need.

A viewing for family and friends will be held Sunday, November 26, 2023 at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 27th at 11:00 a.m. at the church at 55 North Main with a viewing from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the services.  Interment will be in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.