Monday, September 30, 2019
There is a Jewish belief that there are 36 special people in the world and that, if not for them, the world would end.
Even if Wanda was not officially one of them, she was one of the most special people the world has ever known.
Her love, her intelligence, her ability to give to others, to work for what she believed in, her humor, she was an exceptional person, wife, mother, friend, educator, advocate, force for good, yet with a wicked sense of humor.
Her love for her son Jon and her daughter-in-law Sasha was fierce, beautiful, and life giving.
I served with Wanda on the PA board of PS 101Q. which was just declared one of the best schools in the country. Part of that honor was due to Wanda's legacy when she fought for the education of every child in the school, or anywhere else, making sure they received whatever special services they required. They may not know about the wonderful woman who fought for their education, but they benefit from her work over twenty years later.
We also served on the PTA of The Academy of American Studies, because Wanda's dedication to her beloved son Jon's education continued throughout college and beyond.
We will miss her deeply, but take comfort in the love and good she created in our world, and joy that we knew her.
We will never forget her, nor meet anyone who can hold a candle to her. She is the best person I've ever known, and has always been an inspiration in her ability to accept people as they are, and love them for it.
If there is a Heaven, Wanda's there attending an Elvis concert, front row center seat, with her beloved Rudy by her side.
