Wanda (Gronemyer) Whal passed away on Aug. 15, 2016, at her home with family by her side. She had fought a long and braver battle with cancer.
Wanda was born Nov. 18, 1928, in the town of Sumas, Wash. Her parents were Vernon and Ruth Remington Gronemyer. With the advent of WWII the family moved to Bellingham, and following the war, Wanda met Orville Wahl who was just returning from Air Force duty. Wanda and Orville were married in 1946. Orville was then employed by the Washington State Patrol and a transfer brought them to Aberdeen in 1948, where Wanda has lived ever since.
Wanda worked for many years at Swanson’s Grocery and she earned an Associate Arts degree at Grays Harbor College at the same time. Her passion was researching of family history, which took her to England and Germany to visit homes and led to the writing and publishing of her family lines. She was never at a loss for an interesting story to tell about her family’s ancestors. She was also a past regent of the Robert Gray chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Wanda was a member of St. Marks Episcopal Church in Montesano. She was also an avid reader, especially Bible studies, and traveled to Israel with another church member.
She loves family and friends and was happiest entertaining, gardening and keeping a well-kept home. She will be deeply missed by her two daughters, Orinda Tims and Niki Whal of Eugene, Ore., her son-in-law Robert Tims, numerous nieces and nephews, and many beloved friends.
At her request no formal services will be held. To sign the online guestbook and share memories of Wanda, please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com. Arrangements are by Harrison Family Mortuary of Aberdeen.