Reverend Wendell E. Witte, 93

Lakeland – Rev. Wendell E. Witte went home to be with the Lord on Saturday January 6, 2018. He was born in Blue Island, IL and has resided in Florida most of his life. Wendell worked as a preacher and pastor for many years. He started preaching at North and Central Florida Southern Baptist churches. Wendell was also the former Youth Director of Orange Blossom Assoc, reaching from Naples, FL to Arcadia, FL. He began pastoring churches at Island Grove Baptist Church and Corinth Baptist near Gainesville, FL. Later moving on to Fort White and Providence Village, both near Lake City, FL. Wendell also pastored in Ft Myers, Nocatee, Punta Gorda, Eastside Baptist in Lakeland and Christ Memorial in Lakeland (which he helped build). After retiring, he pulpit supplied for Crystal Lake Baptist Church. Reverend Witte also worked for over 40 years as the Coordinator of In House Construction for the Polk County School Board. Rev. Witte truly enjoyed camping trips with his loved ones, and was devoted to his family.

Wendell is survived by his wife, Ella; sons, Alan (Scherry) Witte, Howard (Kathy) Witte, Todd (Heidi) Witte; daughters, Debbie (Gary) Amig, Terry (William) Virts, Beth (Paul) Turk; sister, Laverne Mott; 13 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Wednesday 1/10/18 from 1:00pm – 2:00pm at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home at Serenity Gardens, 3350 Mall Hill Dr. Funeral services will begin at 2:00pm. Interment will follow at Serenity Gardens. Condolences to the family may be offered at www.gentry-morrison.com