Wanda Raye (Pedersen) Schmitz of Newton, KS passed away peacefully on May 19th, 2024 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita, Kansas with family present. After a long battle with cancer, she is now free of pain and at peace.
Wanda was born to Jerry and Sharon (Murdock) Pedersen on October 14th, 1961 in Onawa, Iowa. She was raised by her Grandparents Dale and Etta Waples in Axtell, Kansas. She attended Axtell Public School and graduated in 1979. She married William Schmitz on September 13th, 1980 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Axtell, Kansas. Wanda and William were sweet on each other since the 7th grade but were too bashful to do anything about it until after graduating high school. To this union was born a son, Paul; the biggest joy in her world besides marrying William.
Wanda loved being a homemaker, cooking, baking, gardening, needlework, and just taking care of her family.
Wanda was preceded in death by baby daughter Stacey, her Grandparents Dale and Etta Waples and her father Jerry Pedersen.
Wanda is survived by her husband William, son Paul and beloved chiweenie dog, Sofia; sisters Theresa (Jerry) Sarmiento of Wichita, Kansas, Kimberley (Leonard) Henke of Akron, Iowa and brother Jerry Pedersen of Coffeyville, Kansas, and many nieces and nephews.
There will be no funeral service and cremation will take place. Her ashes will be privately dispersed by her husband and son at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to :
Caring Hands Humane Society
1400 SE 3rd Street
Newton, KS 67114
Baker Funeral Home Valley Center is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com.