Wendelin Nicholas Fonk III, 58 years old, a lifelong resident of Kenosha, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
He was born April 13, 1967, in Kenosha, WI, to the late Wendelin and Ruth (Balk) Fonk, Jr. Wen was educated in local schools and went on to become a salesperson for PH & I Supply Company before becoming a stay-at-home father. He then supported his kids through all their activities as a spectator, fan, and coach. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing hockey, golfing, listening to music, spending time with his family and friends, taking care of his dogs, and cheering on his favorite sports teams: the Chicago Blackhawks and the Green Bay Packers. Wen played through the Komet’s organization since he was a young boy, played in KAHC, and the Old Geezer’s league, and his family takes comfort in knowing that he passed doing what he loved.
On June 19, 1993, he married his high school sweetheart, Iola Ireland, in Kenosha, WI.
Survivors include his wife, Iola Fonk; three daughters, Amanda, Samantha, and Nicole; a son, Nicholas; and two sisters, Elizabeth and Martha. Wen also leaves behind his beloved dogs: Mikita, Melina, and Wilson.
In addition to his parents, Wen was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy.
Visitation for Wen will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Proko Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Kenosha Hockey (https://www.kenoshakomets.com/about/donate-to-the-komets/69085) or Rettungs-Haus Shepherds (contact info@rettungshausshepherds.org) in his memory.
