Wendell Wayne Arnett, a resident of Tampa, Florida, gracefully entered into God’s Kingdom on June 8th, 2023 at James Haley Veterans Hospital, following a brief battle with leukemia. He was 64 years old.
He was preceded in death by his beloved father, Wayne, his mother, Geraldine, and his sister, Lana Sue. Wendell leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his devoted wife, Marilyn Menendez Arnett, and several cherished family members who meant the world to him. Among those who will forever hold Wendell in their hearts are Michelle (Scott) Coleman and their sons and daughter, Ryan Chaney (Danielle) and their daughters, Robbie Chaney and his daughter, Stepsons Rory Menendez and his son, and Ryan Menendez and his soon to be daughter. Wendell is also survived by an uncle, aunts, and several cousins, a loving niece, Symantha (Cris), and several nephews whom he adored, brother-in-law, Robby (Alice) and son, sister-in-law, Sheryl and her son. Additionally, Wendell enjoyed a close-knit group of childhood and work friends who were like brothers, all of whom will deeply feel the void left by his absence, as well as very close friends he enjoyed his daily fellowship with.
Born and raised in Tampa, Wendell embarked on a journey of service after graduating from high school. Enlisting in the Army, he served his country with tremendous pride before receiving an Honorable Discharge. His dedicated service was recognized through awards such as the Marksman Badge with M-16 rifle bar, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon. Upon his return to Florida, Wendell explored various professions before discovering his true passion as a Master Brewer, a path he pursued for three decades. Throughout his life, he actively participated in various organizations, including the Teamsters Union, 4th Dimension Motorcycle Club, Sobrenity Home Group, Grace Family Church, and the Patriot Guard Riders, with whom he rode on numerous occasions, and was an avid golfer.
To know Wendell was to appreciate his impeccable taste in clothing and cologne. Whether it was his Bugatchi shirts or the subtle aroma of Vince Camuto cologne, he ensured he always presented himself as a gentleman. His magnetic smile had the power to illuminate any room, and his laughter exuded an authenticity that drew people towards him. For nearly half a century, Wendell found joy in the open road, indulging in his passion for motorcycles. It was his love for motorcycles and his infectious smile and handsome 6 foot 3 inch distinguished presence that instantly forged a deep connection between him and the love of his life, Marilyn. On January 18th, 2015, Wendell and Marilyn crossed paths at Karaoke, and from that moment, love enveloped their hearts. Wendell had been aware of Marilyn’s presence within the biker community and her philanthropic efforts for veterans and the community for over 15 years. However, his shyness prevented him from approaching her back then. Their first date became the catalyst for a lifelong journey together, navigating the highs and lows, celebrating love, and most significantly, deepening their spiritual connection with the Lord. Throughout it all, Marilyn remained devoted to Wendell, standing by his side until his last breath.
We invite you to join us as we celebrate Wendell’s remarkable life on July 12th, 2023, commencing at 11:30 am at Grace Family Church, located at 5100 W Waters Ave, Tampa. Immediately following the service, The Patriot Guard Riders will honor Wendell by escorting us to his final resting place at Bushnell National Cemetery, where he will be interred with military honors.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Pastor Alex Veloz and the dedicated staff of Grace Family Church for their support during this difficult time. They would also like to express their sincere gratitude to The Patriot Guard Riders for their commitment to honoring Wendell’s service to his country.
Wendell’s absence leaves an indescribable void in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid farewell, we wish to share one final thought, which resonates with the love and faith that guided Wendell throughout his life. Marilyn has chosen the following verses as a tribute to her loving husband:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
2 Timothy 4:7-8
21 Responses
Rest in peace brother
Beautiful tribute to Wendall. We send our deepest and heartfelt condolences to Marilyn and the family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Love,
The Terrano Family
This is unbelievably beautiful and the most touching thing I have ever read. Wendell was a special human being. He will be missed by so many. My heart is with you, Marilyn. Love you.
I’m still in shock that Wendell is gone… was so sudden.
Rejoicing that he is in Heaven, though, and is no longer suffering.
🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I’m so very sorry for your huge loss, Marilyn.
My condolences and love.
Hope you can feel my hug.
Hope it comforts you, somewhat.
Hugs & love,
Roxy
I think it’s a beautiful obituary recounting the love y’all shared and his life. I will surely be at the celebration to honor his life and support you in any way I can❤️
Mr. Wendell was a beloved patient, always neat, smiling and happy… he was recommended by his wife Marilyn who has been very special to me… he was an extension of her… I hope God gives her the strength and the comfort she needs and for Mr. Wendell, two giant wings so he can protect her… Rest in peace… You’ll be missed…. Dr. Mayra Casta
Wendell & Marilyn
I am so glad I was able to get to know both of you over the last few years. I watched you as you cared for each other and was blest to see the continual blessings of the Lord in your commitment to your love each other. My favorite memory of Wendell was at your last birthday party as he threw a surprise gathering for you. He looked so happy about that💜 I loved watching you both make all the beautiful changes in and around your home but most of all I truly appreciate that you both continued to fight the good fight of faith and you both together pursued your growth in your relationship with Our Savior and each other.
This verse from the book of Timothy was a great choice ❣️I will be happy to see both Wendell & you someday beside the River of Life that flows from The Throne . For now I send you my love Marilyn.
I had the pleasure of meeting Wendel on one occasion and was taken in by his gentlemanly presence and warm smile. I know Marilyn loved him dearly and he will be greatly missed. I also know that Wendel came to know Jesus as his Savior and rides the roads of Heaven now and it is there, we will meet again one day!
Marilyn, What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful man. May the Lord keep you in the comfort of his loving arms and give you strength during this time of sorrow. My heartfelt condolences to you and the family. Lovingly, Nancy Burnett-Celovsky. ,
My deep condolences to you Marylyn and your family. I will miss the random visits of you and Wendall. I remember the joyous moments you both shared that you were getting married, now here we are celebrating his memories of his wonderful life. May God be with you during this most difficult time.
Liz
What a beautiful tribute!! My heart goes out to everyone envolved in his life.
Love and prayers Kevin and Cindi
Sorry to hear of your passing but knowing that God has a place for you. Prayers go out to those who you left behind both family and friends. Until we meet again in paradise, I will bid you farewell brother.
My heart aches for your loss Marylyn ❤️
What a beautiful tribute to your husband Wendell. I only had the opportunity to meet him a few times . Though those moments were enough to see how kind he was and how much you both loved each other . Tomorrow is never promised though we are never ready to let go of those we love so deeply . I will continue to pray for you that God will give you strength and Grace to get through this extremely difficult time 🙏
Marylyn I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. I will miss his laugh. He was so smart and loving in his way.
Thank you for giving him so much of yourself. That’s a beautiful kind of love and will live forever in your heart.
Words can’t describe how sorry I am for your loss.” Your true love story is beautiful to all who know you. .” My heart goes out to you and to everyone who loved him. “May happy memories of Wendell comfort you. Please know that I thinking of you”. May Wendell Rest In Heavenly Peace.
Marilyn,
My heart goes out to you. I never had the privilege of meeting Wendell face to face, but after reading your tribute to him, I feel like I missed the opportunity of meeting a “Gentle-Man”!
May the Lord fill you & all his loved ones with His Perfect Peace & Strength as you mourn the passing of your Love, Wendell Wayne Arnett.
I’m still in Israel, if I get back on time for his service I’ll be there. (I fly standby).
Love in Messiah,
Love & Strength to you & yours…
Love & Strength…
What a beautiful tribute filled with love Marilyn. I know how much your heart is hurting but our God promises we will see them again one glorious day!!! Until then we just hang tight to the memories.
The very first day this posted, I left my comment and of course it got lost in the shuffle lol…Wendell, we know this is the story of my life…When I met you it honestly is was Love at first sight… I always said to you in the last 9 years looking at your beautiful face I without a doubt fell in love over and over again. No matter what others thought, we knew it was a deep Soul connection, we were defined Soulmates 🫶 and as you always said we were Champions together! My heart is broken. You will always hold a huge place in my heart…my love, my Soulmate, my husband…Wendell Wayne Arnett Until we meet again 🙏💕
Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me…Psalm 54:4
Wendell was truly one of a kind. His smile and presence could light up a room. I was blessed with the opportunity to get to know him. Ima miss doing your oil changes brotha, I know your riding high in your RAM with the man upstairs. Love Rico.