Wendell C. Mines

Wendell Cory Mines was born to his parents, Edgar J. Mines and Rubye L. Mines (née Ashford) on October 25, 1957 in Denver, Colorado. He was one of six children born in the family and was raised with his siblings, Thomas, Edgar Jr. “Jimmy”, Reginald, Vicki and Florence. Wendell matriculated through Denver Public Schools where he attended and later graduated from South High School.

Following high school, Wendell met Glennis Anderson to whom he gained a daughter by the name of Shynette. This marriage was later dissolved. He later met a lovely woman named Collette Vance in June of 1999 while working, the couple enjoyed 25 years together until Wendell’s passing.

To know Wendell was to know that sports and music were a huge part of his life. He enjoyed skiing, playing tennis, bowling, rafting and playing golf. Wendell was originally a fan of the Baltimore Colts before switching over in favor of the hometown Denver Broncos. Beyond sports, Wendell embraced becoming a grandfather to, Tiera, Taylor and Jameela.

One of his amazing talents was that he could play the trap drums very well. He began playing in high school and continued to perfect his craft over the years. Wendell was a member of Peoples Presbyterian Church where he devoted his musical talents. He played congas and bongos while in the church choir under the direction of Fannie Scott. Wendell embraced this challenge to the delight of the congregation. When Mark Boykins became the musical director, Wendell continued playing the congas and bongas with the choir. This collaboration culminated with the creation of the Jazz tune “Mind Time”, which can be heard on Youtube. The “Lovely Day” arrangement of the Bill Withers song, heard at the beginning of this service was done by Wendell and Mark.

During his career, Wendell worked at Eagle Claw and the Denver Post before later moving to King Soopers meat distribution center. After many years of hard work and dedication, he would retire from this position. He then became the custodian at Peoples Presbyterian Church.

Wendell was a social person who had an abundance of friends. In his own words, “He never met a stranger, they were simply friends that he hadn’t met yet”.

Wendell is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Rubye Mines; grandmother, Carrie Wright; and brother, Edgar “Jimmy” Mines, Jr.

Those left to cherish his memory include his partner of 25 years, Collette Vance; step daughter; Shynette; siblings, brothers, Thomas and Reginald; sisters, Vicki and Florence; grandchildren; Tiera, Taylor and Jameela; great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He will truly be missed.