Sarah Coombs Wencel, 76, of Caldwell, Kansas, passed away on December 31, 2020, in Wichita, Kansas.
Sarah was born on April 30, 1944, to Dorth and Virginia Coombs of Wichita, Kansas. She grew
up in the College Hill neighborhood and graduated from Wichita East High School in 1962. Sarah attended Emporia State University and received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. Sarah taught elementary students for 20 years and specialized in learning disabilities.
One night at the local restaurant in Caldwell, Sarah met Wayne Wencel. They married on November 6, 1987, and enjoyed 33 wonderful years together. Sarah was a good partner to Wayne and helped “run the lunch service” during harvest. They spent many happy days driving to Florida and vacationing there. Wayne and Sarah took a memorable fishing trip to Ketchikan, Alaska, and spent several days and nights on the boat.
Known to her grandchildren as Grams, she regularly attended their activities and was willing to help out any way she could. Sarah had a great love for life and nearly everything in it. And she always had a smile.
Sarah cared about her Caldwell community. She was a dedicated member of the Sumner County Hospital District #1 Auxiliary and the local chapter of P.E.O. for many years. She also supported the Wichita Community Foundation.
Among many hobbies, Sarah belonged to the Caldwell Golf Club ladies association and traveled monthly to play at new courses. She planned many trips with friends, attended musicals and performances, and cheered for the Jayhawks at KU men’s basketball games. Sarah collected sea glass along the beach in Florida and enjoyed spending time with her family. She was a great friend and always ready for a new adventure. Her dog, Sadie, was a close companion over the past several years and occasionally joined her for coffee with friends.
Sarah left a lasting impression on all of our lives through her love, humility, and encouragement.
Sarah was preceded in death by her parents; son, Bryan Barber; stepson, Robbie Wencel; and brother, William Coombs. She is survived by her husband, Wayne Wencel; daughter, Caroline Moore (Randy); stepdaughter, Tyann Orton (Kelly); stepdaughter in-law, Jan Wencel; grandchildren, Courtney Bernard (Cameron), Jackson Moore (Mady), Jessy Potts (Colter), Skyler Wencel (Alec), and Sam Wencel (Carli); and three great-grandchildren.
Following cremation, a private family service will be held.
Memorials may be made to the Sumner County Hospital District #1 general fund or construction fund and sent in care of the mortuary.
Previous Condolences
Sarah's passing is sad news to learn
Trish Wesemann - 01/01/2021
My sincere condolences to the family of Sarah Wencel; she was a special woman, with a smile for all and giggle for many. Her absence in Caldwell will be felt.
Wayne and family, my thoughts
David Baker - 01/02/2021
Wayne and family,my thoughts are with you.
So sorry to learn of Sarah's passing.
Marilyn Houlden - 01/02/2021
I agree with Trish. Sarah always had a smile for everyone. Jerry and I both send our condolences to you, Wayne, and to all family.
Heartbroken to see this
Leon and Linda ... - 01/02/2021
So very sorry to see this news, we've been so out of touch these past months , we had no idea of her struggle. Our hearts and prayers go out to all her family and all those that loved this remarkable, kind, fun loving woman....which is everyone that ever knew her, she was a joy to all. Wayne , we are just so sorry for this painful year for your family
So sorry for your loss
Laverne Chapman - 01/02/2021
Wayne I'm so sorry to hear of Sarah's passing she was such a sweet sweet lady beautiful smile for everyone she met she will be truly truly missed by everyone in Caldwell and anybody who knew her I was so glad to have known Sarah my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family
So sorry for your loss
Debbie Beran - 01/03/2021new
I just loved Sarah. Always a beautiful smile. Such a pleasant lady. She will be missed
Wayne and family,
Bob and Sherry ... - 01/03/2021new
Wayne and family,
Our condolences on your recent losses. I can’t recall a conversation with Sarah that wasn’t filled with laughter and stories of her various adventures. A life well lived and worthy of celebration. May you be blessed with many fond memories.
Wayne and Family
Joyce Cox - 01/04/2021new
Sarah was always a joy to work with at 619 and to just be near. She was a very special lady whom I will not forget.
The Wencel Family
Chris Pool - 01/04/2021new
Our sincerest condolences to the Wencel Family on the passing of our dear cousin Sarah.
Sally Pool, Carol (Pool) Risley, Chris Pool, & Suzie (Pool) Neel
Heartfelt Sadness
Glynda Young - 01/04/2021new
My heart dropped when I happened upon this notice on Sarah. Her beautiful personality brightened all surroundings. Sarah's warmth & spirit welcomed us each time we came "home". I know your losses this last year has been great. My sincere thoughts & friendship are with you.
Glynda
To Wayne and Family
Steve Adams - 01/05/2021new
Thoughts go out to Wayne, his family, and the Coombs family during this time of loss. I pray that you can find strength in the great memories of time spent with Sarah, finding comfort within those moments.
Wayne, my thought and prayers
Julie (Turek) Wolf - 01/05/2021new
Wayne, my thought and prayers are with you and your family. Hoping Sarah and Robbie's memories live strong with happiness through you all. My mom and Sarah had so much fun together and I was always thankful Sarah took mom under her "golfing" wing!
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