Benjamin D. "Bennie" Wedel, 59, died Friday (Dec. 19, 2003) at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.

He was born Feb. 16, 1944 to Benjamin and Helena (Dyck) Wedel in Newton.  They preceded him in death.  He married Lady Pepper in October 1984 in Newton.  She preceded him in deah Jan. 18, 1989.

He was a member of First Mennonite Church in Newton.  He was a master mechanic, working at the former Service Station for 18 years, retiring in 2001.  He was an avid racing fan and enjoyed watching sports.  He enjoyed blues music and spending time with his family, especially his two granddaughers.

Survivors include: two sons, Travis Wedel and Jase Wedel, both of Newton; three sisters, Elda Buller and Ethel Griffin both of Omaha. Neb, and Ruth Mason of Oxford. Pa; and two granddaughters.