Funeral services will be next week for René Ephram Wendell, who died Dec. 24 at his home. He was 81.

He served on the Scottsdale City Council from 1984 to 1988 and was selected as vice mayor in 1986. Prior to that, he was active in city affairs and “cared deeply about preserving the unique culture, community and architecture of the West’s Most Western Town,” according to a city release.

“René will be remembered by all for his kind spirit, commitment to others and wry sense of humor,” Mayor David D. Ortega said. “While I didn’t serve directly with René, I was inspired by his dedication to our community.”

Wendell was considered an expert and avid horseman. He was a lifetime member of the Scottsdale Charros, and the city named the Wendell Arena at WestWorld in his honor. 

“His love of art and horses resulted in a collection of bronze sculptures that were highly celebrated within Scottsdale’s fine arts community,” the release stated.

City officials said Wendell worked to see the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt project come to fruition, as well as the expansion of Scottsdale Airpark. 

Born Jan. 8, 1941, in Evanston, Ill. His family moved to Scottsdale, and he graduated from Scottsdale High School in 1951. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard until being honorably discharged in 1965.

He owned and operated Scottsdale-based Wendell Design Group, a flower shop, for more than 60 years.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at Messenger’s Mortuary, 7601 E. Indian School Road. Funeral Services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Valley Presbyterian Church, 6947 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley.