Wendy Martin, lifelong dog lover

Wendy Martin passed away Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, at AccentCare Hospice in Wilmington, after a long battle with dementia. She was born Feb. 16, 1949, at Beebe Hospital in Lewes, to the late Earl F. and Marjorie H. Bakke.

Wendy grew up on Lewes Beach and graduated from Lewes High School in 1967. She spent her career in the hospitality business as a bartender and waitress at many local restaurants, including The Rookery in Milton and the Lewes-Rehoboth Moose Lodge in Lewes. She enjoyed meeting new and local customers.

She was a dog lover and never lived a day without a dog, adopting most from the ASPCA. Shortly before her dementia diagnosis, Wendy adopted her loyal and loving dog, Chico, who was rescued after surviving the Puerto Rico hurricane. He was by her side until the end of her life. She was also a lifetime member of the American Legion and supported the U.S. military and VFW. Wendy loved music and had a large collection of albums and CDs of pop, blues, soul, and jazz recordings.

Wendy was preceded in death by four brothers, Earl F. Bakke Jr., Linde D. Bakke, Jeffrey L. Bakke, and Jason Troy Bakke. She is survived by a daughter, Sonny R. Reid of Milton; a son, Eric L. Harrison of Salisbury, Md.; four grandchildren, Cassie Reid of Long Neck, Danni Reid, South Bend, Ind., Bridget Reid of Harrington, and Holden Harrison, Salisbury; two great-grandchildren, Greyson and Aubrey; four sisters, Terri R. Glesmann of Lewes, Midge DiNatale of Rehoboth, Kristen J. McGuire of Lewes, and Samuela J. Wray of Milton; 12 nieces and nephews; dear friend and neighbor, Kay Dill of Georgetown, who helped her throughout her illness; and her loyal and loving dog, Chico.

Arrangements will be private.

Visit Wendy’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.