George Wendell Baxter

Wendell Baxter was born May 29, 1926. He was the firstborn son of Robert Alvin and Helen Mae Walker Baxter. At the time of his death, he was the oldest living member of the Baxter family that dates back to the mid 1800’s. His ancestors settled in an area east of LeGrand and some family still resides on the original land that was purchased to dry land farm and raise livestock many years ago. Wendell continued this course of life for over 80 years. He truly loved the land, and the quality of life it provided for him and his family. Wendell attended and graduated from LeGrand High School, class of 1942.

In 1943, Wendell’s life changed dramatically when he joined the army and became a member of the 6th Ranger Battalion with the rank of sergeant. Their most publicized action was their raid to rescue hundreds of starving, sick prisoners held 30 miles behind enemy lines by the enemy, at Cabanatuan, on Luzon. Wendell served 36 months in the south pacific before returning to his bride to be, Leona Phillips.

Wendell and Leona married October 17, 1946. Wendell was married to his best friend and sweetheart for 63 years. Together they created a world of happy memories and shared many adventures and accomplishments. In Wendell’s eyes, nobody could ever replace Leona. In good times and bad, they worked together as a team and managed to pull through, setting a great example for the loved ones they left behind.

Wendell enjoyed farming and the variety of challenges each crop presented, but his true interest was the cattle business. Wendell started raising cattle in his teens and was actively involved in a cow calf and feeder operation until his death. The National Cattlemen’s Association honored him in 1977 for his contributions to the ag industry and community. In 1994, he was also honored by the Agri-Business Committee of Merced County as the Outstanding Individual in Agriculture for Livestock.

He was actively involved in the LeGrand Community. He served as a long time member and board president of LeGrand Elementary School District, member and past chairman of LeGrand Community Day committee, LeGrand Volunteer Fire Department and Merced County Farm Bureau. He was a strong supporter of local 4-H clubs and FFA chapters, actively participating in junior livestock auctions at several local fairs each year. Wendell also was a member and past president of the Merced-Mariposa Shrine and was a member of the Masonic Lodge #99 for 59 years.

Wendell will leave behind many loving friends and family. His son Bob Baxter(Sandy), devoted daughter Phyllis Biggers (David), four grandchildren: Barbara Lerwill, Jessica Bryson, Ryan Baxter (Janelle), Katie Biggers, four great grandchildren: Paige Whitaker, Trent Whitaker, Erin Bryson, Emily Bryson and many nieces and nephews.

On November 7, 2016 Wendell reached the end of his trail and crossed into a new world. He was greeted by family members that preceded his death: wife, Leona Baxter, parents, Robert Alvin and Helen Mae Baxter, brother, Walter Alvin Baxter, and his loving sister, Eleanor Wood.

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