Wanda Thurber

Wanda F. Thurber, born on September 20, 1957, in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, passed away on May 31, 2024 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Her journey of life has been a testament to her strength, compassion, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

Wanda spent her life in Wisconsin Rapids, the city of her birth and the place she always called home. She married her beloved husband, Gene Thurber, on June 22, 1974 in Nekoosa, WI.

Wanda's career was spent in service to others, working 25 years as a dedicated cook at nursing homes in the Milwaukee area. She was well known for her incredible culinary skills, and she took great joy in nourishing the bodies and spirits of those she cared for. Later, she was a school bus driver for the Nekoosa School District.

Beyond her work, Wanda had a passion for animals, especially dogs, cats, and her favorite, ferrets. Her love for animals was evident in the way she cared for every creature that crossed her path. She also loved to socialize, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. She lived her life fully, with an open heart and a generous spirit.

Wanda is survived by her spouse, Gene Thurber; daughter, Renae (Paul) Krause; sister, Dawn (Pixler) Rucinski; and brothers: Kevin (Mindy) Pixler and Keith Pixler . She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Charlene (Hansen) Pixler.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 9:00 am at the Herman-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Center, located at 2201 Chestnut Street, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, 54494. A memorial service will follow at the same location at 11:00 am.

We invite all who knew and loved Wanda to come and share memories, stories, and photos on her memorial page. Your contributions will help to create a lasting tribute to her life and the love she shared with us all.