Wanda passed away peacefully at her home in Campbell River on Saturday, November 22, at the age of 79. While we are heartbroken to have said goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that she can rest now and be with Phil again.
Wanda was predeceased by her father Harold Herr (1936), her mother Alice (2003), and Phil, her husband of nearly 57 years (March 2013). She is survived by her brother Orval (Margaret) of Kelowna, B.C. as well as her three children, all of Campbell River, Debra Rafnkjelson (Warren), David Pedneault (Lynda), and Denise Westfield (Lorne). Wanda was also a loving “Gramma” to four granddaughters, Kelsie (Jason), Rikki (B.J.), Carly (Ian), and Richelle (Jan). In recent years she was thrilled to be “Great-Gramma” to three great-granddaughters, Preslee, Blair, and Emerson, and, most recently, to two-month old great-grandson, Holden. Wanda also leaves behind her brother-in-law Dig (Lynn) of Texada Island, several nieces, nephews, cousins, childhood friends Pat Lorne (Ash) of Richmond, B.C. and Marietta Klobchar of Parksville, B.C., and her other long-time friends.
Wanda was born in Okotoks, Alberta, but she moved to Vancouver at a young age and spent most of her early years there. She worked as a bookkeeper in Vancouver before marrying Phil in 1956 in Victoria. They moved to Bowen Island in 1957, where they stayed until 1964. Phil spent many years logging on several islands and in various inlets up and down the coast. Wanda stayed at home and worked hard to look after their house and kids during the times Phil was away for work. In 1968 the family moved to Campbell River, where they have remained ever since.
Phil and Wanda were a couple that enjoyed doing many things together. After Phil retired in 1991, they enjoyed the simple things in life, including going camping, walking, puttering in their meticulously-kept yard, having family BBQs, and keeping up with and being part of all the goings-on of their children and grandchildren.
When Phil passed away, part of Wanda went with him and we knew that she missed him so very much, despite the brave face she always put forward. She particularly enjoyed visiting with family while sitting on her sundeck, looking out at her beautiful gardens and hanging baskets and watching for hummingbirds at her many feeders. She always loved chocolate and had a sweet tooth right up until she left us.
The family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Robert Ramsey and the nurses from Home Care.
There will be no service by request. In lieu of flowers, for those wishing, please make a donation to a charity for abused children.