AUBURN — Wesley E. Fenderson, 79, a resident of Lake Shore Drive, Auburn, died unexpectedly Monday, Aug. 20, doing what he loved best, working on the job.

He was born in Exeter, N.H., Jan. 21, 1933, the son of Carl and Edith (Garland) Fenderson. He grew up and attended schools in Old Orchard Beach. He moved to Auburn in the 1950s and met his wife and started a family and a business in the same year.

He owned and operated Auburn Sanitary Service for 55 years with his wife, Ann. He took great pride in teaching his grandson, Jason, the business. Jason will proudly carry on the business legacy with the same great respect his grandfather gave to his customers.

Wes appreciated his customers and went the extra mile to make them happy. He was in business for so many years, his customers were like family to him. He was a hard working man, blessed with a successful business and blessed many others with his kindness in times of need.

Not only was he a successful businessman, he was a caring, loving and generous husband. He was an exceptional father, who had great wisdom and influenced his children’s lives.

He adored his grandchildren and he was the center of their lives. He shared his wisdom with a great sense of humor. His quotes will be passed on for generations. Even though the time with his great-grandchildren was shorter, he already impacted their lives.

He had a special affection for animals especially his dog, Benny, who he took for special rides in his pickup truck. Words cannot do justice to describe the presence of this man. He was a quiet, private man who spoke loudly with love. He will be greatly missed on earth. We know that he is rejoicing in heaven. He remained strong in his faith and is now reunited with his two sons, Mark and Ricky and many others who he loved.

Survivors include his wife, the former Ann Smith of Auburn; three daughters,Debra Marron and husband, Chris, of Auburn and their children, Amy and Emily, Jane Fenderson and partner, Gregory, of Greene and children, Jessica Graham and her husband, Jason, and Jonathan Finley, and Mary Card and husband, Michael, of Auburn and their children, Jason Card and wife, Ruby; great-grandchildren, Caleb, Camereon and Jacob, Matt Card and his wife, Sarah, and great-great-grandchild, Madeline; three brothers, Carlton and Gordon Fenderson, both of Old Orchard Beach and Richmond Fenderson of Auburn; and two sisters, Vesta Kennedy and Carlene Dube, both of Saco.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed atwww.lynchbrothers.com.