M. Wendell Calder, 86, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2025, in Leesburg, Florida. Born on April 20, 1938, in North Road Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada, Wendell dedicated his life to serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and sharing His message across the globe. Wendell’s journey of faith began with formal theological training at the New Brunswick Bible Institute, where he earned a three-year certificate. His lifelong commitment to ministry and evangelism was later recognized with an honorary doctorate from Liberty University. These academic milestones were only the beginning of a remarkable life devoted to spreading the Gospel.
Throughout his life, Wendell was a tireless servant of Christ. He founded Woodland Baptist Church in Woodland, Maine, and Living Waters Bible Conference in Weston, Maine-both enduring ministries that continue to impact lives today. His passion for teaching led him to serve with Word of Life ministries around the world. Perhaps most notably, he founded Local Church Evangelism, a ministry now in its 50th year. Through this organization, Wendell preached and taught on six continents, always driven by his unwavering desire to share Christ with others. Known affectionately as “the man with the hair,” Wendell was also remembered for his personal motto: “I will not quit-by God’s grace I can do it.” These words encapsulated his steadfast spirit and deep reliance on God’s strength throughout decades of ministry. His life was a living testimony to perseverance and faithfulness.
Wendell is survived by his beloved wife Joan TL (Newman) Calder; daughter Laurie C Harsh; son-in law Paul B Harsh II; granddaughter Kristin Bell and her husband Chad Bell; and great-granddaughters Kerrigan Bell and Keagan Bell. He was preceded in death by his parents Colwell and Kathleen Calder; brothers Clifford Calder, Austin Calder, and Clinton Calder; and sisters Velma Calder and Marge (Calder) Lank.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Lady Lake, located at 432 County Road 466 E, Lady Lake, Florida 32159. A viewing will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. prior to the service at 10:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow immediately after. Wendell Calder finished well-a faithful servant who lived every day with purpose and conviction.
May his legacy continue to inspire all who knew him to live boldly for Christ.