Theresa Wendland

Theresa Wandell Wendland, a long-time resident of Rockdale, died Monday, September 14, 2015 at Rambling Oaks Courtyard in Highland Village, Texas.

The youngest of eight children, Wandell was born in Red Rock to Myrtle Bowen and John Sims in 1922. Weighing only two pounds at birth, she developed a strong will for survival and a feisty spirit which carried her through almost a century of extraordinary life experiences. She eloped at seventeen with her high school sweetheart, Arnold Albert Wendland. The newlyweds had an independent and unique start to married life by choosing to live in a tent by the river. When Arnold was drafted into the military, Wandell followed him across the country. After four years of moving place to place, hand-in-hand, they settled down with their new family in Rockdale. They were happily married for fifty-seven years spending as little time apart as possible.

Wandell is survived by two children, Doyle Arnold and Ronald Wayne, eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and several great, great-grandchildren.

Wandell was an avid gardener whose life was filled with colorful flowers. She was also an animal lover who rescued many stray cats, dogs, and squirrels throughout her life.

Keeping her passions in mind; Plant beautiful flowers and rescue as many animals as possible. Flowers may be sent to the service or memorial gifts may be donated to local animal charities.