IN LOVING MEMORY OF
John
Wandrey
June 13, 1967 – February 10, 2025
Obituary
John N. Wandrey passed away peacefully on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the age of 57, after an inspiring fight with cancer. He was born in Milwaukee, WI, to his loving parents, Nicholas and Doris Arvan. He attended James Madison High School in Milwaukee and completed school in 1985. John brought joy and warmth to everyone around him. His spirit and kindness will always be remembered, leaving a smile in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
In 1990, driven by an unwavering passion for cars and a dream to create something of his own, John launched his business, John's A-1 Auto Body, starting with little more than a modest $1,000. Over the years, through sheer determination and skill, he transformed that small investment into a thriving, well-respected establishment in the community. As he reflected on the journey, a deep sense of pride washed over him for all he had achieved. With eyes set on new adventures, he eagerly anticipated the opportunity to retire at the end of 2024, looking forward to the next chapter of his life after decades of hard work and dedication.
John embraced speed with a fervor that mirrored his love for cars. In his younger years, he was known as "Dirty Wandrey" at Slinger Speedway, a place where he poured his heart into racing. Those who knew him would agree that his greatest passion was his ever-evolving collection of vehicles. Each new car represented a fresh adventure; he thrived on the thrill of buying, driving, and then moving on to the next prized possession, always in pursuit of the next exhilarating ride.
John married Cari L. Krueger on August 29, 1992, and together they embarked on a beautiful journey of family life. Family meant everything to John; he was a deeply loving father and husband, and anyone in his world was embraced as part of that family. His heart found its truest joy in Eagle River, WI, where countless cherished memories were created with the kids, family, and friends over the years. Weekend trips were a celebration of life, filled with boat rides, snowmobiling, ATV adventures, and joyous moments of togetherness.
John's memory will be cherished by his beloved wife of 34 years, Cari. He leaves behind his dearest oldest son, Thomas Wandrey, and his beloved twins: US Navy Seaman Robert "Bobby" (Bianca) Wandrey and Maria Wandrey. John is also lovingly remembered by his siblings: Mike (Vickey) Wandrey, Kathy Esser, David Wandrey, and Mary (Pat) Doherty, as well as his sister-in-law Lori (Nick) D'Acquisto. His best friend Scott Van Roo was a constant source of support and joy. In addition, he is survived by many nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends who will miss him dearly. John was preceded in death by his parents Nick and Doris Arvan and his in-laws, Robert and Mary Krueger, who welcomed him into their family with open arms.
John's life will be celebrated on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM at American Legion Post No. 1, N120 W15932 Freistadt Rd. Germantown, WI 53022.
In 1990, driven by an unwavering passion for cars and a dream to create something of his own, John launched his business, John's A-1 Auto Body, starting with little more than a modest $1,000. Over the years, through sheer determination and skill, he transformed that small investment into a thriving, well-respected establishment in the community. As he reflected on the journey, a deep sense of pride washed over him for all he had achieved. With eyes set on new adventures, he eagerly anticipated the opportunity to retire at the end of 2024, looking forward to the next chapter of his life after decades of hard work and dedication.
John embraced speed with a fervor that mirrored his love for cars. In his younger years, he was known as "Dirty Wandrey" at Slinger Speedway, a place where he poured his heart into racing. Those who knew him would agree that his greatest passion was his ever-evolving collection of vehicles. Each new car represented a fresh adventure; he thrived on the thrill of buying, driving, and then moving on to the next prized possession, always in pursuit of the next exhilarating ride.
John married Cari L. Krueger on August 29, 1992, and together they embarked on a beautiful journey of family life. Family meant everything to John; he was a deeply loving father and husband, and anyone in his world was embraced as part of that family. His heart found its truest joy in Eagle River, WI, where countless cherished memories were created with the kids, family, and friends over the years. Weekend trips were a celebration of life, filled with boat rides, snowmobiling, ATV adventures, and joyous moments of togetherness.
John's memory will be cherished by his beloved wife of 34 years, Cari. He leaves behind his dearest oldest son, Thomas Wandrey, and his beloved twins: US Navy Seaman Robert "Bobby" (Bianca) Wandrey and Maria Wandrey. John is also lovingly remembered by his siblings: Mike (Vickey) Wandrey, Kathy Esser, David Wandrey, and Mary (Pat) Doherty, as well as his sister-in-law Lori (Nick) D'Acquisto. His best friend Scott Van Roo was a constant source of support and joy. In addition, he is survived by many nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends who will miss him dearly. John was preceded in death by his parents Nick and Doris Arvan and his in-laws, Robert and Mary Krueger, who welcomed him into their family with open arms.
John's life will be celebrated on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM at American Legion Post No. 1, N120 W15932 Freistadt Rd. Germantown, WI 53022.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Wandrey, please visit our flower store.
Services
Visitation
February
16
2:00 - 6:00 pm
John Wandrey's Guestbook
Visits: 6
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