CHICAGO – George F. Wendt, a prominent fixture in the Chicagoland swimming community, died during the Big Shoulders Open Water Swim Classic in Lake Michigan on Saturday, September 11. He was 73 years old.

Wendt has been heavily involved with the Chicago Masters Swim Club for more than 30 years, serving as the group's president for the last 25, according to UIC head swimming coach Tim Loeffler. He helped to foster the connection with the Masters and UIC Swimming. Under Wendt's leadership, the Masters utilize the Flames Natatorium inside the Physical Education Building, as the former's primary aquatics venue.

"George was a lifelong educator and passionate about the community that came with the sport of swimming," said Loeffler. "The mentorship from George and the Masters program has not only created an immeasurable amount of support for the program, but contributed to the vitality and success for years to come for UIC Swimming and Diving.

"To dedicate our upcoming 2021-22 season to George is the least we can do," added Loeffler.

Wendt graduated from Fenwick High School in Oak Park, Ill., and later the University of Minnesota. Both schools were also attended by Loeffler. As a prep swimmer, Wendt participated in the United States Olympic Trials at the age of 16. Wendt participated in every Big Shoulders open water swim since its in inception in 1991, winning the overall race in 1993 and 1995.

Wendt is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Anne, three children and nine grandchildren. Visitation is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.at Peterson-Bassi Chapel, 6938 W. North Ave. Funeral services will take place on Monday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church in River Forest, Ill. A celebration of life for his countless friends in the swimming community is planned for Sunday, Oct. 3, on what would have been his 74^th birthday, at Promontory Point in Chicago.

The Flames plan to specifically honor Wendt at to-be-determined home meets during the upcoming campaign.