Loretta Wendt

Loretta E. Wendt: A Life Beautifully Lived

With an everlasting smile that brightened every room, Loretta Ernestine Wendt, 87, departed this world peacefully on June 14, 2024 at Perham Living. She was a lifelong resident of Perham, Minnesota.

Born to Christian and Hazel (Borchardt) Jorgenson on March 6, 1937 in Perham, Loretta was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle, Ludwig and Georgianna (Jorgenson) Bauck. Her formative years were spent steeped in faith, attending St. Paul's Lutheran Church and School. It was there she was baptized, confirmed, and on September 21, 1957, joyfully united in marriage to Eldred Wendt.

A woman of many talents, Loretta worked at several local establishments over the years, including Drummonds, Chuckie’s Ribs, Cactus Gardens, Kenny’s Candy and Nelson Confections becoming renowned for her skill in crafting delectable caramels. Her skilled hands could make almost anything, from intricately crocheted pieces to meticulously sewn micro-mitts and American Girl doll clothes. Loretta also found immense satisfaction in gardening, canning the fruits of her labor, and baking up treats for those she loved. Loretta was also an avid sports fan cheering on the Twins, Vikings, Minnesota Wild and NASCAR. 

While life presented its fair share of challenges, Loretta countered each one with resilience, grace, and that radiant smile lighting her path forward. This strength of spirit is how she will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Loretta leaves a beautiful legacy through her loving children, Vicki (Mike) Uselman - Austin, TX, LaRae (Paul) Witsaman - Fort Worth, TX, Rodney Wendt - New York Mills, MN, and Ronald (Patricia) Wendt - Shoreview, MN; 22 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and many adoring nieces and nephews. Awaiting her joyful reunion are her husband, Eldred; son, Rollin; parents; siblings, Cecil, Rosie, Kay, Cliff and Marty; and aunt and uncle who raised her.

Friends and loved ones are invited to celebrate Loretta's extraordinary life on Thursday, June 20th at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Perham. A visitation will be held from 10:30am-12pm, followed by a funeral service at 12pm officiated by Pastor Andrew Ratcliffe. Burial at the church cemetery.

The family gratefully thanks Pastor Ratcliffe, Pastor Del Stohs, the team of caregivers at Perham Living, Knute Nelson Hospice, and Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service for their compassionate care.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com