Wendell James Cote was born on June 30, 1953, in Roseau, Minnesota, and passed away on November 1, 2021, in Dryden, Ontario at the age of 68. Wendell was raised with his sisters Lydia, Lynn, Cindy, and brothers Kerry and Randy in Vassar, Manitoba by his parents James and Louise. After Wendell graduated from trade school for heavy duty mechanics, he joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1971. He set sail from Halifax, Nova Scotia, and travelled the world for the next three years. He got to see many places including Australia and the Philippines.
When Wendell returned to Vassar, he met the love of his life, Rachel. They were wed on June 25, 1977 and stayed in New Brunswick for a short period of time. The two of them built a life together in Ignace, Ontario with their children Jamie, Tony (Tracy), and Jody (Ryan). Wendell and Rachel operated their own business, W&R Cote Logging. They worked together as a team and there was no job they couldn’t tackle together. When they weren’t working, Wendell and Rachel took the kids out to explore nearby lakes and landmarks. They shared 44 wonderful years of marriage. Their love continues to live on through their grandchildren Tristen (Jade), Caleb, Kaitlyn, Trinity, Jase, and Remi. Wendell was diagnosed with COPD in 2008, but he never let it slow him down. Wendell and Rachel bought a Winnebago and travelled the United States and Canada visiting their children, grandchildren, and friends. Wendell took up wood carving and was extremely talented. Each of the grandchildren had pieces specially made for them. Wendell loved to travel, and he and Rachel took their children, grandchildren, and Billy on many memorable family trips. He was an avid hunter, camper, loved fishing and the outdoors. Nothing was more important to Wendell than spending time with his family. We will forever remember and miss his kindness, wisdom, sense of adventure and humor, and his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone. Wendell was predeceased by his father James and sister Lydia.
Condolences(7)-
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Wayne and cheryl Clarkson says
November 2, 2021 at 6:37 pmWayne and I sorry to hear of your loss… Hugs to your mom and family..
Kristina Delblanc Howell says
November 30, 2021 at 4:10 amWendell was a Kind, Caring and a very Good Soul.
It wasn’t easy living in a French Catholic Village for our family since we were Swedish Protestants from Sweden.
But, it was obvious you dominated your family Scandinavian genes. You were always ready to give a Smile when in passing on the Baseball field, Classroom or the School Bus. Nothing but good Memories living near you in Vassar.
I know you will be very much missed.
My Condolences to you entire family.
Brenda Broughton says
November 2, 2021 at 7:02 pmDear Rachel Tony and Jody, we are so very sorry to hear about Wendell. He was one of the best and will be missed by many.
Monique Cote says
November 3, 2021 at 3:15 pmI can still hear his laugh.
One of the fun, funny and gentle souls in our huge family.
My love and hugs go out to Rachel, Aunty Louise and all of the family.
<3
Monique
Jeanette Grawberger says
November 9, 2021 at 2:37 pmRachel, I am so sorry to hear of Wendell’s passing. My condolences to you and your family.
Kristina Delblanc Howell says
November 30, 2021 at 3:45 amWendell was a Kind, Caring and a very Good Soul. Living in Vassar wasn’t easy for a Swedish Protestant family like mine. But, it was obvious you had the strong Scandinavian genes. Never a time you wouldn’t Smile when passing in school, school bus or during a Sports event.
My Condolences to your family. I know you will be missed.
Kristina Delblanc Howell says
November 30, 2021 at 3:43 amWendell was a Kind, Caring and a very Good Soul. Living in Vassar wasn’t easy for a Swedish Protestant family like mine. But, it was obvious you had the strong Scandinavian genes. Never a time you wouldn’t Smile when passing in school, school bus or during a Sports event.
My Condolences to your family. I know you will be missed.
Donations may be made to DRHC Pulmonary Rehab through the Dryden Community Funeral Home, 249 Grand Trunk Avenue, Dryden, ON P8N 2X3