Remembering Dick Wendin | 1939 – 2023

Lifelong Castle Parker Richard Hale Wendin passed away peacefully Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023. Born and raised in the Detroit area, he spent many happy summers in Castle Park. Dick loved horse riding here in his early years and later was an accomplished All-American swimmer having captained Williston’s swim team and as a member of the Yale varsity swim team; undoubtedly a skill honed here in Lake Michigan.

Dick Wendin (left) with brother Sigurd in 1945 (probably at Castle beach)

After graduating from Yale in 1962, Dick served 3 years in the US Army Counter Intelligence Corps stationed in Germany, accomplishing amongst other things the retrieval of a missing nuclear warhead from a rubbish dump. He maintained his military ties proudly serving as commander of American Legion 372 for many years.

From 1966 Dick worked as an investment officer/advisor for Detroit Bank & Trust, Donovan Associates and Heber-Fuger-Wendin in Detroit and hence Castle Park was always a short hop for a week-end away. In the 70’s that commute became extra quick — and stylish! — when made in his custom yellow Boss Mustang.

In his later years, Dick loved to be in Castle Park during the shoulder months and welcoming his nephews & nieces arriving in July & August for the past twenty with their burgeoning families and catching up on old times spent together in Castle Park with his brother Sig and sister Connie.

The family and all of us who knew Dick well will fondly remember his quick wit, dry sense of humor and great story telling (if a little bit naughty at times). We miss him dearly and may he rest in peace.