Died peacefully on February 13, 2021. She was 89 years old. Wanda is survived by her sons, Paul (Karen), David (Louise), Charles, Jr. and sisters Earlene and Ann, brothers Jerry and Bruce, 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased in death by her husband Charles, and her brothers Guy, Thomas, Lee, and Dennis, and her sisters Gail, Nancy and Una.
Born on October 26, 1931, Wanda was the third oldest of the Merkel Dozen—5 sisters and 6 brothers, daughter of Ruth and Earl Merkel. Wanda’s love for her siblings was absolute and loyal. She spent hours on the phone with her sisters or teasing or joking with her brothers. Her large and remarkable family was the loving center of her world.
Consistent throughout her life was Wanda’s laugh. She laughed frequently, and distinctively—it will forever resonate in our hearts.
Private service and interment. The family is planning a mass and a celebration of her life in the Summer of 2021. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Rochester Presbyterian Home, 256 Thurston Road, Rochester NY 14619-1544, where Wanda was cared for with dignity and compassion. For more information, please visit www.beanandsonsfuneralhome.com
