Obituaries

James J. Wenner, 96

March 28, 2024

James J. Wenner, aged 96, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2024. Born to the late Edward and Elizabeth Wenner in Williamsport, PA, James dedicated many years of his life to serving his community. His commitment to public service was matched only by his devotion to his family and faith.

James served in the US Army from 1945 to 1946. He then became a State Policeman from 1951 to 1979 where he received the rank of Sergeant, last serving as the head of the criminal investigation unit at troop J Lancaster. He then served as Chief Deputy Sheriff of Lancaster for an impressive 14 years.

A devout Catholic and proud member of the St. Anthony of Padua Parish Council James lived his life guided by his religious convictions. He was a 4th degree Knight of Columbus, embodying the values of charity, unity, and fraternity. He was also a steadfast volunteer for Meals on Wheels.

James was actively involved in his children’s lives. He coached baseball and served as a cub scout leader. As his children grew older, James found joy in various other pursuits. He was an avid golfer and helped organize and run bingo at St. Anthony’s. He also loved to travel, with Myrtle Beach holding a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Wenner, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage until her passing in 2022. He is also preceded in death by his siblings Charlotte Fortney, Mary Louise Wenner, Leo Wenner, and infant Dorothy Wenner.

James is survived by his children Thomas L. Wenner (Jeannine), Susan R. Wenner, Beth Ann Wenner (Patrick Foy), Anthony J. Wenner (Harriet), and Michael J. Wenner (Diana Morgan). He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren Adam, Laura, Amy, Helena, Ruby, and Charlotte, as well as his great-grandchildren Anthony and Lylah.

A funeral mass in celebration of James’s life will be held at St. Anthony of Padua, 501 E Orange St, Lancaster, PA 17602 at 11am on April 5, 2024, with viewing one hour prior. Following the mass, James will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Anne’s Retirement Community at stannesrc.org in memory of James J. Wenner. A special thank you to Lisa Hollywood and staff for their excellent care and comfort they provided James and his family.

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Condolences to the Family

May 06, 2024

Jim is revered highly, especially by my dad, Bob Walchack. They were troopers together and dad continues to reminisce of “the good ole’ days” including Jim and Shirley visiting. Such good people who loved God and their family. Prayers for his family of whom he spoke of and loved dearly. 
Cheryl (Walchack) Harris

April 06, 2024

Jim’s Fischer relatives in Williamsport send prayers to his children and grandchildren. 

April 06, 2024

Rest in peace Brother James. 
Mark Rothermel
St James Assembly 3166
Conway, SC

April 04, 2024

Jim and Shirley were blessed to become friends while we knew them here in the Myrtle Beach area and more specifically as parishioners at St. James Catholic Church in Conway, SC.  We will never forget the special day Jim and I made our 4th Degree together in Charleston, October 11, 2008, and our visits to Lancaster on our way to and from our own family vacations in Massachusetts.  We pray he will rest in peace.
Peter and Annette Copeland

April 04, 2024

The greatest man I ever worked for on the job.  We had some great times golfing in Hilton Head and in the Lancaster area also.  I will miss you Jim.
Peter Chimienti

April 03, 2024

Rest in Peace Brother James.
Tom Durilla, PSP Troop M. ret.

April 03, 2024

Rest in Peace Brother
Mike Barbuti PSP Retired

Visitation
Friday, April 05, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church
501 E Orange St
Lancaster, PA
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Services
Friday, April 05, 2024
11:00 AM
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church
501 E Orange St
Lancaster, PA
Map and Directions

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