Charles Lawrence "Chuck" Wendling, BHS 1963Longtime local firefighter dies
Burbank High grad Charles Wendling described as last of 'old school' firemen.
Mark R. Madler, Burbank Leader, September 29, 2004
BURBANK, Charles L. Wendling, who served for 30 years with the Burbank Fire Department, died at his home Sunday.
He was 60.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at Eckerman Heisman Funeral Home, 333 E. Magnolia Blvd.
Fire Department Capt. Ron Bell called Wendling one of the last "old school" fireman at the department, and one who was compassionate and cared for those he helped. Bell also described Wendling as an engaging storyteller around the fire station. "He definitely was a smoke eater, " Bell said. "Even toward his retirement, he was one of the first who wanted to go in and still wanted to do his job."
Wendling joined the department in 1970 and retired in 2000. Wendling, who also went by Chuck or Pidge, was born in Glendale and raised in Burbank. He lettered in football and baseball at Burbank High School. Wendling enjoyed fishing, listening to big band music, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by wife, Mary Ellen; sons, Tim and Michael; daughter, Jennifer; and grand-daughters, Georgia and Ella.
Pidge was a great neighbor!
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