Wanda Yanda, 84, died at her home in Oak Harbor on March 20, 2006. She was born to Polish immigrants Michael and Stella Yanda June 23, 1921 in Elma, Wash.

After finishing school, Wanda spent her early years living and working in a Catholic convent. Later in life she went to work for the Sun Valley Company in Sun Valley, Idaho. She worked there for 33 years before her retirement in 1987. In December of 1987, she moved to Oak Manor where she lived until the time of her death.

Wanda was a devout Catholic. She was an artist, and a lover of animals as well as people.

She was always taking in stray, bedraggled cats and caring for them all. Wanda had many long-lasting friends due to her soft, kind heart. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Wanda was preceded in death by both parents and her two brothers Daniel Pieterzak and Ben Yanda. She is survived by four nieces: Deborah Ogden, her husband Jim; Alexandria Boyer, her husband Jordan; Cassandria Huben, her husband Chad; and Andria Heggenes. She was also survived by a nephew, Mikah Janda and his wife Cora; six great-nieces and nephews; and six great-great nephews; along with her sister-in-law Virginia Davis and her husband Joe.

There will be a celebration of Wanda’s life at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 30 at the Davis residence. Address: 5288 Delphi Dr. Langley, Wash. Friends and family welcome.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to WAIF Animal Shelter in Coupeville or St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Oak Harbor.

Arrangements were made under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.