Wendell Johns, Jr

Walter Wendell Schell Johns, Jr, 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love and presence of family by birth and by choice. Wendell lived a life of kindness and love alongside his wife of 58 years, Barbara. Together they raised three children who strive to carry on Wendell's legacy: Wendy Johnson (Terry Wiggers), Jeff (Denease) Johns, and Heather Johns. Family was always first with Wendell, and his love was unwavering for grandchildren Andrew (Julia) Johns, Tyler Johnson, Katherine (Cameron) Diaz, Thomas Johnson, Rebekah (Jake) Braschler, Brandon Wiggers, four great-grandchildren, and many fur-babies.

Wendell loved being outdoors. He looked forward to walks at the Great Plains Nature Center, considered Botanica "his place", volunteered for years with Campfire Girls, and loved spending time in his yard and gardens. He was quite proud of his career-long commitment to The Coleman Company in Wichita following his service in the US Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Captain.

In addition to the family mentioned above, Wendell is survived by sisters Joan Janzen and Marylee Johns (Bill Lessels), niece Catherine Janzen, and many members of his family by choice. He was preceded in death by his parents Wendell S. Johns, Sr. and Beth Sara (Jefferson) Johns.

A memorial service celebrating Wendell's life will be held on Friday, October 13, at 3:30pm, at the Cozine Life Events Center. To honor his love for Botanica, please consider making a memorial contribution to this community treasure in Wendell's name.

Memorials may be made to:

Botanica, The Wichita Gardens

701 Amidon St.

Wichita, KS 67203