Wendell Paul Hill

Wendell Paul Hill, 71, of Willis, Texas, passed away on April 11, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, on January 4, 1954, Wendell was the youngest of five children born to Jack and Pearl Hill, who welcomed him into heaven with open arms.

Known simply as “Dad” to his children, Wendell was strong-willed, unfiltered, and full of heart. He was never one to shy away from sharing his thoughts, but behind that stubborn streak was a man who would do anything for the people he loved.

Wendell had a deep passion for the outdoors. He loved to fish, camp, and spend time on the water, especially aboard his boats, including his cherished Pearly Raye, docked in Galveston. He took great joy in sharing these experiences with his children, Wendy and Tommy, creating countless memories on camping trips and long summer days spent on the water. Nights were often spent sleeping aboard the family’s Four Winds boat, with the kids tucked into the cabin storage spaces—small enough then to fit just right.

Wendell was an avid water skier and taught his kids how to ski and kneeboard, proudly passing down the joy of the lake life. Wendell also enjoyed slalom skiing, which he was especially good at. He also had a deep love for classic trucks, especially his 1977 Ford truck, which still remains in the family and is being driven in his honor today by his son Tommy. His motorcycles were another source of joy, often used to pick up the kids and take them for unforgettable rides.

He wasn’t just a man of adventure—he was a builder, too. Wendell built both of the homes he lived in: the first on Henry Road, and later a custom barndominium on Lake Conroe in Willis. He and his son Tommy poured time and heart into creating that special place, where many summer days ended with family barbecues and laughter.

In recent years, Wendell found great happiness with his girlfriend, Yvette Gordon, and his fur buddy , Bud. Their bond was full of love and companionship, bringing light to his later years.

Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Pearl Hill, and his brother, Coy Hill.

He is survived by his loving girlfriend, Yvette Gordon; his daughter, Wendy Karstedt, and her husband Sonny; his son, Tommy Hill, and his wife Kristie; his grandchildren, Cody Karstedt (fiancée Trinity Dickinson) and Mackenzie Hill; his great-granddaughter, Aria Karstedt; and his sisters, Martha Thomson, Doris Davis, and Sandra Wales.

Wendell will be remembered for his strength, his stories, his fierce love for family, and the countless memories made on the water, by the fire, and in the home he built. He leaves behind a legacy of grit, love, and laughter that will live on in those who knew and loved him.