Wendell Bruce MacKellar

MACKELLAR, Wendell Bruce Age 82 of Lawton passed away Saturday, June 27, 2020 in the comfort of his home. Wendell was born August 28, 1937 in Lawton, the son of Carl and Marvel (Abbott) MacKellar. In early life, Wendell enjoyed farming and had many fond memories and stories of working with his Grandfather, Orville Abbott on the farm as he grew up. He attended the Shaw school near his home, and then finished his education at Decatur High School. He graduated in the class of 1955. He met the love of his life, Irene (Kay) Bowling of Dowagiac and they were married in December 13, 1958. Wendell joined the National Guard shortly after High School. He also worked for the Michigan Department of Transportation for 36 years, with the first 12 years on road construction as an inspector and the remainder of the time as a mechanic at the Jones, MI garage. Wendell continued to farm most of his life. Wendell and Kay were involved in a lot of activities together. Kay was a Key Leader in the West Valley Busy Bees 4-H club, which they both did a lot of work on together. They were members of the Yellow Rocks Square Dance Club in Marcellus, and later in life were involved with the Fruit Belt Wood Carvers in Cassopolis. Wendell was a pilot, purchasing his first airplane shortly after high school. He flew out of an airstrip at his home until his health waned later in life. He was a member of the EAA Chapter 1028 in Dowagiac. Many family and friends have noted that Kay and Wendell’s home was always a hub of activity for their kid’s friends when they were growing up. Some of these have shared that they always felt welcome to drop by, share a meal or just stop, visit and hang out at their farm. Wendell is survived by brothers Richard (Sheila) MacKellar of Decatur, Kenneth (Yvonne) MacKellar of Gaylord, two sons, Bruce (Amy) MacKellar of Decatur and David (Vicki) MacKellar of Middleville, MI; four grandchildren, Ryan, Rachel, William and Lauren MacKellar. Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Marvel, sister Marian, brother Don and his wife Kay. Funeral services provided by Newell Funeral Home. A Graveside Service will take place at the Anderson Cemetery (outside Decatur) at 10 AM on Thursday, July 9th. Those wishing to share a memory of Wendell online may do so at www.newellchapel.com