Frank T. Wendel, 84, of Vero Beach, passed away peacefully on Sept. 6, 2015, at his home.
He is survived by his brother George W. Wendel of Martinsburg, W.Va.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Frederick Wendel and Joseph Wendel. He also has five nephews and one niece.
Wendel was Manager of the Los Angeles Hilton and Towers prior to his retirement. A native of Somerville, N.J., he previously resided in Pompano Beach, Fla., as well as La Quinta, Calif.
He served his country with distinction on active duty in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1951-1955 and later in the Air Force Reserves until 1959, was also a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Additionally, he was a member of the Los Angeles Convention Bureau, Southern California Business Association and the Westchester Chamber of Commerce.
An influential member of the1984 Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee, Wendel’s efforts as part of Peter Ueberroff’s leadership team were critical in orchestrating the first privately organized and financed Olympic Games.
The collective efforts of the LAOOC resulted in a large financial surplus which was used to fund Olympic athletes and local charitable groups and served as a model for future events. At Hilton Hotels, Wendel directed a $60 million expansion of the Los Angeles Hilton expanding the facility from 900 to 1300 rooms while improving guest services.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Sebastian, on Sept. 26. The family requests that any memorial donations be made to any military affiliated charities in need.