She was born in Havana Twp, Mason County, IL October 18, 1941, the daughter of Louis and Berna (Kastendick) Fanter. Wanda married Frederick Hesselberth in 1964, and he preceded her in death in 1966. Wanda married Leonard “Len” Beck in 1987, and he survives.
Also surviving are her children: Julie (Garrett) Savage of Ashland, IL, Dan (Dusttie) Beck of Waynesville, MO and Amy (Les) Wines of Springfield. There are seven grandchildren: Carmen (fiancé Casey Muncy) Savage, Eric (Kennedy Milligan) Savage, Evan Beck, Austin Beck, Nathan Ahlers, Nicholas Ahlers, and Nolan Ahlers, her siblings: Jean Clink of Camby, IN, Wayne (Pat) Fanter of Springfield, IL, and Marilyn (Don) Blakeley of Kilbourne, IL. Wanda has many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Donald and Glenn Fanter.
Wanda earned a master’s degree in education and taught in the Streator and then Springfield School district for a few years before joining the State of Illinois. She retired from the Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities, now Department of Human Services, where she served as the Quality Assurance Director.
She was a faithful and very active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Wanda was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling, working puzzles, and all things that challenged her intellectually. More than anything, spending time with her grandchildren and spoiling them every chance she had was by far her biggest joy.
Family and Friends are invited to a time of visitation on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 2:00-4:30 pm at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Monday, February 17, 2025, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL. Pastors Joshua T. Traxel and Joel Springer will officiate. Cremation Rites will be accorded following the service. Inurnment will be private in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish, may direct memorial contributions in her name to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and School 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL 62704 or the Christ Care Fund at Concordia Village 4101 W Iles Springfield, IL 62711.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
