Wanda Lou Helvey, age 81, of Merrill, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, April 2, 2020 at her home after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born April 14, 1938 in Tomahawk to William & Gladys (Fortney) Dietrich. Wanda attended Tomahawk High School and later in life went onto Northcentral Technical College. Wanda was known to many in the community as “Miss Wanda” as she was a teacher’s aide for Parkside Preschool for almost 30 years. Wanda’s passion in life was spending time with her family. Wanda had a loving, courageous, and honest nature and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Survivors include her mother: Gladys, children; Lesley (David) Borkowski, Fond du Lac, Randy (Barb) Helvey, Hewitt, Kevin (Tammy) Helvey, Wausau, Wade Helvey, Merrill, Todd Helvey, Merrill, Robin (Erik) Helvey, Merrill, grandchildren; Craig, Kristin, Zachary, Derek, Rikki, Cody, Marissa, Samantha, Joseph, Dannielle, 8 great grandchildren, brother: William (Gladys) Dietrich, sister in law: Barb Dietrich, and many other relatives and friends. Wanda was preceded in death by her father: William Dietrich, sister: Diane Krenz, brother: Lyle Dietrich.
Private family services will be held on Sunday, April 5th, 2020. A celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.
To protect the health and safety of all, services are currently being limited as required by state and local authorities and the CDC.