Maxine Wensel

Audrey Maxine Wensel, 93, of Plano, passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023. She was born on November 13, 1929, to Charles & Phyllis (Keim) McVicker, the oldest of three daughters. Maxine was born and raised in Talmage, Kansas, where she enjoyed small town living with strong and supportive family ties, growing up on the same block as her grandmother and cousins. After tragedy claimed the lives of her paternal aunt and uncle, Maxine’s dad, who owned and operated his own mechanic shop, provided support for two households. At the age of 11, Maxine worked as the telephone operator for the town. By age 14, she worked as the teller for the only bank in Talmadge. Maxine developed a strong work ethic at an early age that carried her through her life.

In her freshman year of high school, she met Larry Wensel and began dating him following graduation from Dickinson County High School in Chapman, Kansas in 1947. She was an accomplished pianist who had a deep appreciation for music. Maxine went on to attend Kansas University, where she majored in music.

On May 27, 1950, Maxine and Larry married. They were blessed with 72 years of marriage together, where they built a life of love and laughter that only grew stronger over the years. They started a family and moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where Larry worked for Collins Radio while Maxine worked as a homemaker, raising their three children. While in Iowa, Maxine served as the pianist for the Church of the Brethren in Robins, Iowa. When they eventually made their way to Plano, Texas, Maxine and Larry were members of First United Methodist Church in Plano for over 60 years. Maxine valued her faith, taught Sunday School, and was involved in various groups, including Methodist Youth Fellowship. She retired from Mendenhall Elementary in Plano following 33 years as the school secretary.

More than anything, Maxine cherished her family. Her greatest joy in life was being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Whether it was square dancing with Larry, attending countless activities for her children and grandchildren, or cooking for her family, Maxine loved it all. She was a talented cook, and was truly exceptional at being a wife and mom while working a full-time job, balancing her many responsibilities gracefully. Maxine’s adoration for her family was steadfast and strong.

Maxine found joy in the simple things of life, with an optimistic outlook, an appreciative sense of humor, and gratitude for life itself. She enjoyed laughing and was uplifting to others. Maxine was supportive with her listening ear and sound advice. She was an amazing friend and didn’t let distance come between friends. She always put the time and effort into her friendships, resulting in many wonderful lifelong friendships over the years. Maxine also had a way with children that was truly remarkable. She could relate to kids of all ages and relished spending time with them, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Maxine’s delight in life has carried her wonderfully throughout the years. She will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew her.

In addition to her parents, Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Wensel, in May 2023; daughter, Lori Wensel, in 1976; and sister, Judy Enyart. She is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Randy Wensel & Janet Robertson of Dalton, Georgia and Craig & Kathryn Wensel of Lantana, Texas; four granddaughters, Nikki (Eric) Rustad of Fort Worth, Texas, Bridget Hernandez of Fort Worth, Texas, Amatey Wensel (Mike Goodwin) of Bartonville, Texas, and Ashley (Ross) Mellen of Frisco, Texas; three great-grandchildren, Callan Rustad, Jack Hernandez, and Charlie Hernandez; and sister, Bonnie Sutton of Manhattan, Kansas.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday August 10, 2023 at 11:00am in First United Methodist Church, 3160 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, Texas 75074 with Pastor Judith Reedy officiating.