Wendell was born in Holland, MI to William and Anna Barense Rooks. After graduating from Holland High School in 1945, he served in the US Army. He graduated from Hope College and began his 39-year career in education at a four-room schoolhouse in the Van Raalte School District. He went on to spend 21 years at the Holland Christian Schools as a teacher and elementary principal. Along the way, he earned a master’s degree from the University of Michigan. He retired in 1990 as the principal of Blue Star Elementary School in Hamilton.
He was currently a member of Graafschap CRC, and formerly Prospect Park CRC. Wendell and his wife, Lillian Stegenga Rooks, enjoyed many years of retirement living in Conyers, GA. She preceded him in death on February 11, 2023.
Wendell is survived by children: Tom (Becky) Rooks of Topeka, KS, Linda (John) Workman of Chattanooga, TN, Jim (Arda) Rooks of Holland, Charles Rooks of Atlanta, GA, Kathie (Mike) Bamsey of Conyers, GA; 19 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren; a niece Deb (Bob) Van Wyk of West Olive, as well as another extended family.
Besides his wife, Lillian, Wendell was also preceded in death by his sister and her husband, Barb, and Jerry Holthof.
No services are planned. Private interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be given to Holland Christian Schools.
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