Wendell A. Kreisler, age 94, of Brookfield, PA, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. He was born on Saturday, January 9, 1932, in Elkland, PA.
He was the youngest of nine children of the late John and Lena (Backes) Kreisler. In addition to his parents, Wendell was preceded in death by his siblings, Uleta Margraff, William Kreisler, Richard Kreisler, Lyle Kreisler, Joesph Kreisler, John Kreisler, Wa-Nita Frank, and Clayton Kreisler. He is survived by his wife Laura (Gauss), daughters Lisa (Harold) Bitler and Shari Kreisler. His grandsons Tyler (Kara) Yuelling, Connor Comstock and great grandchildren, Madelyn, Alexander, and Harrison Yuelling.
Wendell was a graduate of Elkland High School. He as a basketball standout and played on the school’s team as well as many area basketball travel teams. Wendell served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was stationed at Tempelholf Airforce base in Berlin, Germany as a demolition expert, building, detonating, and disarming bombs. He rose to the rank of Sergeant. Earning the National Defense Service Medal and Occupation Metal for Germany.
Wendell lived a long glorious life, full of love, smiles, and laughter. He married the love of his life Laura Gauss on November 10, 1958. They would have celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this Fall. Wendell worked at the Elkland tannery until it’s closing. He then worked for PennDot until his retirement. He then went to work, at his favorite job, delivering flowers for his daughter at her flower shop, The Crystal Rose in Corning NY, until it’s closing.
Wendell’s first and foremost thought of everyday was his family. He loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He loved to be outside at his pond, on his tractor, hunting, rooting on the Buffalo Bills, and his Boston Celtics.
Wendell was a proponent of equal rights for all. Everyone was welcome at his home and had a place at his table. Respect and kindness for all was the rule at his home. he was a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion.
A Graveside service was held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at the Highland Cemetery in Elkland PA where friends and family gathered that afternoon. Reverend Tim Miller officiated.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the VFW, St. Judes, or Shriner’s Children’s Organizations.
