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Richard “Dick” Alan Wendt, 69, of Magee, Mississippi, passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
Dick was born on January 30, 1957, in Akron, Iowa, to Ralph and Phyllis Wendt. He grew up on a farm with one older sister, Nancy, and four older brothers, Bob, Ron, Jerry, and Tom. Hard work was a requirement on the farm, but fun and games were never in short supply, keeping life lively and their mother on her toes.
The strength Dick developed working on the farm served him well in college wrestling and other athletics. Like his father and two older brothers, he loved sports in all their forms—watching games, competing, and eventually coaching others. Sports became an important part of his life and a way for him to invest in the lives of others.
Dick graduated from Westmar College in 1979 with degrees in mathematics and education. After several years of work, he felt called to serve in the Peace Corps, spending several years in Malawi, Africa, where he served local communities and later trained other volunteers. After returning to the United States, he continued his education through a program for returning Peace Corps volunteers and earned his master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg.
As part of his commitment, Dick agreed to teach for two years in Magee, Mississippi, in exchange for loan forgiveness. But in typical Dick fashion, he decided that three years would be a fairer commitment. Three years became thirty, as Dick put down roots in Mississippi and devoted his life to serving students and his community. Further proving his commitment, he was chosen as STAR Teacher numerous times, and he was the Citizen of the Year in Magee in 2021.
For the next three decades, Dick served in many roles—as a teacher, coach, bus driver, and missionary. He gave generously of his time, talents, and resources, often quietly meeting needs that others might never have noticed. There is no way to know how many pairs of shoes, uniforms, and other necessities he purchased for students who couldn’t afford them. He invested countless hours in his students, encouraging them not only in the classroom but in life.
Dick “Coach” started the soccer program in Magee, recruiting and coaching students as he encouraged them to grow as athletes, students, people, and Christians. Students remember his dry sense of humor, compassionate heart, and collection of science-themed T-shirts. On occasion, Coach would forget that he was wearing the periodic table on test day, sometimes revealing answers to the very test he was giving. When that happened, he simply taped a piece of paper over his shirt—a classic Dick moment that his students remembered with a smile. He also coached cross country and taught chemistry, physics, polymer science, and mathematics. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or behind the wheel of a school bus, Dick found ways to show up for others and help them discover what they were capable of.
Dick’s commitment to serving others extended well beyond the school day. He was a faithful member of Overflow Church and a supporter of Promise Keepers, FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), and was working to bring LifeWise to the Magee area to encourage the faith of students. His love for Jesus was more than a set of beliefs; it shaped how he lived, how he treated people, and how he responded to their needs.
Dick sought to be the hands and feet of Christ, often in practical and tangible ways. He quietly helped provide necessities for those who could not afford them. He was also willing to stand against racial prejudice, advocate for those who were treated unfairly, and be a friend to people from all walks of life. Whether serving behind the scenes or standing up for what he believed was right, Dick sought to reflect the love of Jesus. He was never afraid to speak about his faith, but he also understood that the way he lived could speak volumes. His life was a testimony to the faith he held so dear.
Even after building a life in Mississippi, Dick maintained close ties to his family and friends in northwest Iowa. He returned whenever he could to reconnect with those he loved. He also enjoyed serving as part of the support crew for Siouxland Cyclists during the annual RAGBRAI bicycle ride, combining his love of people, service, and adventure.
During the summers, Dick routinely served in Honduras with BMDMI (Baptist Medical and Dental International Mission), participating in medical and dental mission trips. His willingness to give of himself extended across borders and into the lives of people he might otherwise never have met.
In an effort to connect with children, Dick learned to make balloon animals. What began as a way to minister to kids soon became one of his own ways of bringing joy to people wherever he went. He carried balloons with him, ready to share a smile with anyone nearby. Even in his final days, Dick asked for his balloons so he could thank the nurses caring for him with a bouquet of balloon flowers—a fitting expression of the thoughtfulness and joy he continued to share with others until the very end.
Dick is survived by his brothers Ronald, Jerry, and Tom Wendt; his nieces and nephews, Clint Fick, Jennifer (Scott) Wendt Geisler, Julia (Travis) Dahlke, Jason (Jessica) Wendt, Madeline (Scott) Wendt, Robin Wendt, and Linder Wendt; many great-nieces and great-nephews; a great-great-nephew; and many, many friends who will miss him dearly.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Phyllis Wendt; his sister, Nancy Fick; and his brother, Robert (Bob) Wendt.
A memorial service celebrating Dick’s life will be held at Overflow Church on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
Dick was a gentle coach, a faithful friend, and a steadfast believer in Jesus Christ. In his final days, he spoke often of the Lord’s work in his life and his desire for others to know Jesus, too. His heart’s desire was to bring honor and glory to his Father in heaven, and his faith remained at the center of his life to the very end. He now rests in the presence of the Lord he loved and longed for others to know.
Events
Sunday, November 1, 2026
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So sad to hear this news. He was such a good teacher. I remember 30 years ago when he started teaching at Magee. He was an interesting guy and walked to work for a long time before getting a bike. Learned a lot from him so many years ago and am grateful. RIP Mr Wendt, a great science teacher and friend.