Sharon Lee Wandler

Sharon Lee Wandler was born on June 20, 1945, in San Francisco, California, to Edward and Virginia (Warren) Hanson. Business brought Sharon and her family to Washington, and she lived in the Nile Valley and Naches areas. She met Rick Wandler, and both of their lives began anew when they met each other. They married on July 3, 1992, blending their families with Sharon's children, David Hutton (Rhonda) and Denise Martin (Roger), and Rick's children, Molly Hixon (Eric) and Darcy Thompson. She not only raised her own children, but was a mother to Molly as well - and Molly thrived as a result.

Sharon worked in finance and accounting throughout her professional years, serving 24 dedicated years as the Finance Director at the Yakima Housing Authority. She took pride in helping others acquire homes, in being a good steward of tax payers' money, and in being part of her team. She continued to take joy in strengthening her community by volunteering for the Naches School District, becoming treasurer of the Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Fund. During a rally with her recent illness, Sharon shared how she longed to recover in order to continue her efforts for the students in her community.

Sharon was a spitfire. She was feisty, and had the ability to avoid taking herself too seriously. With her keen wit, she helped others to gain a sense of perspective. She shared fiercely loyal friendships, and lived in the certainty that she and her friends would do anything for each other. Debbie, Michelle, Gloria, Susie, Linda, and Patty (aka, "Bullwhip") were very helpful during difficult times.

Sharon was a gifted mentor and devoted grandmother who filled her schedule with grandchildren's events: school events, sports, plays and school programs. She was a nurturer, tending her home garden and the garden of human beings who graced her life. She continues to be a source of inspiration. Even through her illness, her faith was undeterred and her soul was prepared.

We give special thanks to the family and friends who gave us so much support throughout this difficult journey. Thanks to Todd, who provided transportation to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Virginia, and sister, Sheila. She is survived by her husband, Rick, sister, Sonja (Stan), children David, Denise, Molly, stepdaughter Darcy, and 11 grandchildren: Riley, Macey, Morgan, Max, Ashton, Alex, Emily, Brody, Eli, Drew, and Caleb. She is also survived by her nieces and nephew, Angel, Nicole, Sarah, and Kasey.

A memorial service will be held at Memorial Bible Church in Gleed on Friday, August 17, 2012, at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Naches School District Dollars for Scholars Fund c/o Keith & Keith Funeral Home.