Published in the April 20, 2018 edition
MELROSE — George E. Wentzell, 95, a resident of Saugus and formerly of Melrose, passed away at the North Shore Medical Center in Salem on Tuesday, April 10, 2018.
George was born on July 4, 1922 in Melrose, one of two children of the late George E. and Florence P. (Thyng) Wentzell. Raised in Melrose, George graduated from Melrose High School. After graduating, George enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and proudly served his country as a Bombsight Technician during WWII. For his dedicated service, George received a European – African – Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon with 7 Battle Stars and a Distinguished Unit Badge with Cluster.
After receiving an honorable discharge on October 14, 1945, George worked as an airplane mechanic for American Airlines for 10 years. He then worked at Newhall’s on Main Street in Melrose as a shoe salesman from 1955 to 1979. George then worked at Whittemore Hardware in Melrose where he became known as “Mr. Fix-It.” George was full of helpful advice and suggestions, and hosted a local community cable program specializing in lamp repair. George was a kind hearted, sensitive, and gentle man who enjoyed conversing with his friends, neighbors and customers.
With his longtime presence in downtown Melrose, George enjoyed being active in the local community. He was a member of the Melrose Kiwanis Club for 25 years and served as Treasurer and Past President of the Friends of Saugus Senior Center. In his free time, he enjoyed working around his home, especially doing yard work, and never hesitated to help out his neighbors.
Married 64 years, George loved dancing with Margaret; they were a joy to behold on the dance floor. He enjoyed a good joke and always had one ready to share. George was also a kite lover. His kites could be seen flying high above Nahant beach on a summer day where he became known as the “Kiteman.” Fly high George! You will be missed.
George was the beloved husband of the late Margaret T. (Barbato) “Peggy” Wentzell with whom he shared 64 years of marriage. Devoted Dad of Lydia Winter of North Bennington, Vt., George and Patty Winter of Chester, Conn., Elizabeth Elwell of Shaftsbury, Vt., and the late Neal Winter. Dear brother of the late Isabel Newhall. Cherished Grampy of Kate and Jason Shamberger of Groton, Matthew and Miranda Rhodes of Seattle, Wash., Jennifer and Rob Sunderman of Ashburn, Va., Margaret “Maggie” and Derek Damato of Rocky Hill, Conn., and Ian Winter of North Bennington, Vt. Loving Great Grampy of Madeline Clara “Maddie” Shamberger, Corinne Shamberger, Adam Shamberger, Ira Maurice Rhodes, and James Wentzell Sunderman. Also survived by several nieces and nephews, and devoted, lifelong friend, Edward Waystack of Melrose.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of George’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose, on Saturday, April 14, followed by his funeral service. Interment with US Air Force honors at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. For directions, or online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
