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Wanda Whitaker
December 1, 1930-January 26, 2021
Whitaker obit pic
Wanda Diane Whitaker, nee Lancaster, died on January 26, 2021, at her home, surrounded by her loving husband of 70 years, Bill, and her two daughters, Karen Odell of Modesto and Rondi Bussey (Gregg) of El Dorado Hills.
   She is also survived by her devoted grandson, Aaron Coe (Amy) of Bend, OR.
     Wanda was born in Beech Grove, Indiana, on December 1, 1930. When she passed, she had just turned 90. She was the youngest, called the “caboose” by her railroad patrolman father, and was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings. A tomboy at heart, she played football with the neighborhood kids, and later, loved watching the Niners and Giants play.
   She was a lively, social woman with many friends, with whom she enjoyed projects like painting the house and chairing committees. A fifty year member of Eastern Star and Job’s Daughters, she was always the PTA President, Brownie leader, and Pink Lady volunteer at the hospital. While there she fashioned beautiful silk flower arrangements for patients and families. She also used this talent to make all the flowers for her daughter’s and grandson’s weddings.
   Wanda was an avid genealogist, completing both sides of the family tree for her daughters and grandson. She also added family trees of her sons-in-law and, very much enjoyed her discoveries of historical relevance, such as being related to English royalty!
   She was a tech savvy wife, mom and grandma who loved nature and laughter. Going camping and cooking over an open fire were some of her other talents. She taught her children and grandson about birds, flowers, and had a wonder for all beautiful landscapes, wherever she was. Playing cards and board games with family was a great pleasure of hers.  She loved to sing and dance, and was the biggest fan of her children’s and grandson’s performances. She was the favorite aunt of many of her nieces and nephews, not just because she was younger, but, because she was so much fun, and so young at heart!
Wanda will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know her!
   “And just at the moment when someone at my side says, “There she is gone!” There are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout; “Here she comes!” Henry Van Dyke.
   P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the Whitaker family. The family is asking for memorial donations to made to a charity of your choice. An online guestbook is available for condolences at www.plfryandson.com

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Thursday, January 4, 2021