Bernard (B.J.) Wendel

Bernard Joseph Wendel, affectionately known as B.J., went to be with the Lord on July 12, 2025, at the age of 85. Born in Hillje, Texas, on December 7, 1939, B.J. lived a life full of devotion to faith, family, hard work, and music. He worked as a Boilermaker (Welder) for Dow Chemical Company for 30 years, from 1965 to 1995, earning the respect of his peers for his craftsmanship, dedication, and strong work ethic. A man of deep faith and service, B.J. was a proud and active member of the Knights of Columbus in Angleton, Texas. He was especially known for his faithful presence on Tuesday nights at bingo and served as a 4th Degree Grand Knight from 1982 to 1984. Music was one of B.J.’s greatest passions. A talented trumpet player, he loved sharing his gift with others. In 1979, he founded B.J. and The Music Makers, a family band formed with his two sons and other relatives. Over the years, he continued to perform on and off with his sons, bringing joy and energy wherever they played. B.J. was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Mary Wendel; his wife, Angela Wendel; his son, Gregory Wendel; his sister, Charlene Gwosdz, and brother-in-law, Milton Gwosdz; and his stepson, Eugene Mucka. He is survived by his brother Joseph Wendel; his daughters Denise Lezak (Mark) and Jennifer Hill (Peyton); his son David Wendel (Melanie); stepdaughters Barbara Mucka and Cynthia Mucka; and stepson Tony Mucka. He was a proud grandfather to Kristen Orsak, Garret Wendel, Brad Lezak, Amy Ilse, Kady Fernandez, Ryan Lezak, Jacob Lezak, Kirk Wendel, Kayla Erevia, Kevin Wendel, Dillon Hill, Savannah Hill, and Morgan Hill. He also leaves behind several great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life. Pallbearers will be Garret Wendel, Brad Lezak, Ryan Lezak, Jacob Lezak, Kevin Wendel, and Dillon Hill. Honorary pallbearers are Barbara Mucka, Cynthia Mucka, and Tony Mucka. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the Mucka family for all of their love, support, and care for B.J. over the years. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, with Father Orrin Halepeska officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m., at which time the Holy Rosary will begin, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. All services will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 1416 George St., Rosenberg, Texas 77471. Burial will follow at West Gethsemane Cemetery in Rosenberg, Texas. B.J.'s legacy of faith, music, and service lives on in all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed. Expressions of remembrance and condolences are welcome and may be left for the family at www.davisgreenlawnfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd. (Hwy 59 South @ FM 2218), Rosenberg, Texas 77471, Phone: 281-341-8800.

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Bernard (B.J.) Wendel

December 7, 1939 - July 12, 2025