Justin Lee Wesnitzer passed away December 22, 2022 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Our loving son, brother, uncle, grandson and friend was born May 12, 1980 in Worland, WY to Mari Lynne Huhnke and his adoptive father, Joe Wesnitzer, who helped raise Justin from his first day. It is hard to believe that such a large personality could once be so small, but in those early days Justin slept in a dresser drawer when his mom, dad and Grandma Sharon weren’t doting on him.

The family moved to Colorado Springs in Justin’s early years, where he grew up with his brother, Matt, and sister, Amanda. From an early age, Justin’s loving (and fun-loving) nature shone through his smile and numerous jokes. Most of which usually weren’t fit to repeat.

Justin’s professional passion was cooking, and he spent most of his adult life working in and around kitchens throughout Colorado Springs and Sheridan, WY. He began his career with Old Chicago Pizza and worked his way up to kitchen manager. In this role, he travelled across the United States and helped open several new locations due to his organizational skills in the kitchen.

When not working, Justin loved fishing – especially with his oldest niece – and enjoying the outdoors.

Throughout his life, Justin fought numerous battles. The largest was with alcohol addiction, but later he also fought seizures and a recurring brain tumor. His family will miss his large smile and larger-than-life presence. We hope that he has finally found peace.

Justin was preceded in death by his mother, two uncles, and several grandparents.

He is survived by his father Joe Wesnitzer of Sheridan, brother Matt Wesnitzer of Sheridan, sister Amanda Bunker (Adam) of Sheridan, grandmother Sharon Fech and step-grandfather Joe of Meeteetse, nieces and nephew, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Due to winter conditions, services will be planned for the coming summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Justin’s name may be made to the Volunteers of America Northern Rockies Life House in Sheridan, Wyoming, or to an addiction-recovery charity of your choice.