Wanda Mae was born Feb. 23, 1939, in Missouri Valley to Nathaniel Archer and Daisy Mae Meade. She was the youngest of eight children. She grew up on the farm outside of Missouri Valley and went to a country school until she transferred to Missouri Valley High School and graduated in 1957. Wanda married her lifelong sweetheart, Kenneth Olsen, Sept. 22, 1957. Together they enjoyed a successful farming operation north of Missouri Valley where they raised three daughters.
Wanda enjoyed many hobbies; sewing, bicycling, tennis, travel, and horseback riding were among her favorites. She most enjoyed family gatherings on the farm and spending time with friends. Drop-by friends were always welcomed with a cup of coffee and something sweet. New friends were made when the couple wintered in The Villages for 10 years.
Those close to Wanda knew of her playful, fun loving and caring spirit. Not afraid of hard work, she taught her daughters a strong work ethic while having fun. Her teasing nature is remembered with fondness. Wanda was a faithful member of the Missouri Valley Christian Church where she served the Lord with joy. Wanda leaves a legacy of love for her Lord and for others.
Wanda passed away Sept. 15, 2021, at Bergan Mercy Hospital, Omaha, Neb. at the age of 82. She was preceded in death by her parents and seven beloved siblings.
She is survived by husband of nearly 64 years, Kenneth; daughters, Karen Romero (Mike) of Omaha, Peggy Hoover (Dave) of Sherman, Texas, and Lisa Olson (Craig) of Cumming; grandchildren, Elise Romero Boman, Megan Romero Nelson, Michael O. Romero, Samantha Hoover Magruder, Austin Hoover, Rachel Olson West, Katie Olson Muehring; and great-grandsons, Hunter Nelson and Charlie Boman.
Memorials can be directed to Missouri Valley Christian Church. Visitation was Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, at Hennessey Funeral Home in Missouri Valley. The funeral service was held Monday, Sept. 20, 2021, at the Missouri Valley Christian Church. Pastor Matt Zingraf Officiated. The music selections were “Come To Jesus”, “Great is thy Faithfulness” and “I’ll Fly Away”. The casket bearers were Mike Romero, Dave Hoover, Craig Olson, Michael Romero, and Austin Hoover. The final resting place is at Calhoun Cemetery in Missouri Valley.
Arrangements by Hennessey Funeral Home Missouri Valley. www.hennesseyonline.com
