January 7, 1923 - October 12, 2018
“Iridescence. Derived from Iris, the Greek Goddess of the Rainbow, refers to a vibrant optical effect of rainbow like colors that change in the light.”
Iris Wendel was born during a blizzard in winter 1923 to Edna Dorothea Neale and George Miller in English Consul MD. Iris grew up in Baltimore and played jazz piano while attending Forest Park High School. She also modeled and performed on live radio for her mother’s children's theater program and for local and national advertisers. As the oldest of three children she often teased her young brothers, Donny and Dick (Miller) that she was in fact Iris the Goddess of the Rainbow to persuade them to do their chores. (They did their chores.) As an adult she was a creative and accomplished home-maker and mother. During the 1950’s she worked as professional food stylist for The Gary Moore Show on CBS television in New York City. At the age of 70 she launched her own successful business, Iris Antiques, in Redbank NJ.
Iris was pre-deceased by her husband of more than 40 years, Frank Wendel with whom she lived in Atlantic Highlands, NJ. In addition to being an avid reader Iris was an excellent cook, gardener, and decorator. She was compassionate with animals, taking care of wounded wildlife and adopting strays who always seemed to find her. Iris also loved to travel and spent time in Holland, Austria, and especially enjoyed cities, like Paris and London.
She is survived by four children: Jeffrey Escoffier, a writer and publisher; Lin Boulay,a health care professional; Leith ter Meulen,a business owner; and Deirdre Wendel, a physicist; three grandsons Richard Zerilli, Brian Boulay, and Chad Boulay (all fire fighters); and three beautiful great-granddaughters Lena Rose Boulay, Olivia Joon Boulay, and Ava Rayne Zerilli.
Iris was proud of her children and grandchildren’s achievements. She encouraged us to look within, and to trust our instincts and follow our dreams while offering her pragmatic wisdom and moral support in all our endeavors. Generous, fun loving and enigmatic Iris inspired her loved ones with her playful sense of humor, boundless curiosity, and strength of character to seek our own adventures and strive for excellence.
Iridescent, irresistible Iris. We are all so grateful for the time we had with you. You will be missed deeply.
A private memorial will be held by her family. In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution to
Humane Society of the United States or Foundation Fighting Blindness.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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