Ann Y Wedel

Ann Y Wedel, a beloved wife, mother, and cherished friend, passed away on November 12, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on April 10, 1936, she was the daughter of Deo and Yvonne (Brown) Henry. A graduate of Climax High School with the Class of 1954.

Ann took great pride in her role as farmer's wife, working alongside her husband Walter, who she married on December 11, 1954. Their love story began at the Leonidas Dance Hall that same year, where they danced the night away to the melodic voice of Rem Wall. Together they welcomed four children including Ben, Cyndi, Tim, and Lori into their hearts and home. 

Ann was not just an active participant in farm life; she brought laughter and joy to those around her with her great sense of humor. She had a unique ability to make the ordinary feel extraordinary and special. As a devoted mother, she was known for her nurturing spirit, always caring for her children and creating a warm, loving home infused with her remarkable cooking.

In her leisure time, Ann found joy in various activities that kept her spirit lively. There were several sports that she and her husband played together such as bowling, horseshoe pitching, and shuffleboard. They loved traveling abroad to participate in shuffleboard competitions, and these travels took them to places like Canada, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, and Brazil. Ann was inducted into the Women’s Division of the Michigan Horseshoe Pitcher Hall of Fame, Florida State Association Shuffleboard Hall of Fame, and the USA National Shuffleboard Association Player Hall of Fame. Ann and Walt were also inducted into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame. They were also members of the Wakeshma Community Church where Ann taught Junior Church for 25 years and where she founded the Harvest Supper which she continued to lead for 30 years.

Her enthusiasm for sports extended to watching tennis on TV and cheering on the Detroit Tigers, showcasing her passion for both the simple pleasures of life and the excitement of the game.

As we remember Ann, we honor her legacy of love and commitment to family, which stood as her proudest accomplishment. Her vibrant personality and zest for life will surely be missed, but her spirit will forever shine in the hearts of those who knew her. Ann Wedel’s journey enriches the memories she leaves behind, a testament to a life well-lived and loved deeply.

Ann is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Walter; her parents Deo and Yvonne Henry, and her son-in-law: John Frakes. 

She is survived by her four children: Ben Wedel, of NC; Cyndi Frakes, of Scotts; Tim Wedel, of Kalamazoo; Lori (David) Fry, of Fulton; six grandchildren: Jonathon (Michele) Frakes, of Vicksburg; Heather Frakes, of Kalamazoo; Jessica (Randy) Bartholomew, of Fulton; Michael (Catherine) Fry, of Fulton; Travis (Vanessa) Fry, of South Lyon; and Levi Fry, of Grand Rapids; and 10 great grandchildren. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 1pm at ChapNaz, 7520 East U Ave, Vicksburg. The family will receive friends at the church from noon until the time of the service. She will be buried at the North Fulton Cemetery. 

Memorials made in Ann’s memory can be directed to Chap Naz Clothes Closet or CorsoCare Hospice envelopes are available at the funeral home.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign her guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family. 

The Wedel family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.