Wanda Vento Kalvelage

Born in 1923 to Andre and Maria (de Araujo) Vento in Rio de Janeiro, Wanda Vento Kalvelage passed away on October 18, 2018 at the age of 95 surrounded by family and friends. As a teenager she had been celebrated as the youngest female pilot to fly solo in Brazil and was often in the limelight. Her proficiency in several languages landed her a job at the US embassy in northern Brazil. It was there in 1946 that she met the love of her life, George R. Kalvelage, a US Air Force pilot stationed at a remote base but in town for an embassy dance. Their marriage in 1948 remained until George's death in 2005. Their life together was extraordinary; they lived and traveled extensively all over the world having five children along the way.

Most important to Wanda was her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and all loved her beyond measure, as did the friends of her children. When her own were grown, young neighboring children knew her home as a 'magic' place for she always promised that, "Your wish is my command." Wanda's hospitality and remarkable cooking made for many memorable occasions where extra guests were always welcomed.

Wanda was an accomplished artist in several mediums including oils, pastels, printmaking, and drawing. She was a serious student of art and art history and was involved with the McNay, Coppini Academy, and the ReBarn at Incarnate Word. A love of learning also included philosophy, classical literature and music which informed her teaching. Her art reveals the depth of her sensitivity.

Wanda was a spiritual person and longtime member of St Pius X Catholic Parish. She practiced her faith with kindness toward all she knew. As a family friend said, "It was never, never about her. It was always about everybody else." This true spirit of love was a gift to everyone who knew her.

Predeceased by her son Paul, husband George, and brother Andre, she is survived by her children Ann Fuller (Jim Watson), Norma Kalvelage, John (Pam) Kalvelage, Julie Kalvelage. Grandchildren, Carolyn (Jeff) Ratliff, John Ley, James (Katharine Kishiyama) Ley, Ann Ley, Andre Kalvelage, Charlie Wehling, Georgia Wehling. Great grandchildren, Tyler and Colby Ratliff. Sister, Norma Vento Altilio. Sisters-in-law, Helen K. Stoltz, Rose Marie K. Depke, Marilia Vento. Numerous beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews living on three continents.

Services include a Visitation on Thursday, November 1 from 5-8 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway at Eisenhower. Mass the following day, Friday, November 2 at 9:15-10:00 am, at St Pius X Catholic Church, 3303 Urban Crest at Harry Wurzbach, followed by interment at Ft Sam National Cemetery (pavilion 3) at 10:30 am. Luncheon following at St. Pius X, 11:30-1:00.

Heartfelt gratitude goes to Wanda's cherished caretakers at Brookdale Oakwell Farms and to her outstanding dedicated Hospice Team. Wanda will be remembered with the happiest of memories and with reverence for her character and the benevolent light she shown on all.