Thanks for being such a great friend for 40 years Wende, I will miss you so much.Love you, Bones

I will forever remember Wende, always full of sass, heart, laughter, love, and a force to be reckoned with.  For many years one of my baby sisters from Ma, and always in my heart.  While it was extremely difficult on my heart to stay close in her life, I never stopped loving her or watching from a distance (and facebook once it entered our lives) where life led her.  She impressed me with so much.  How strong she was.  What kind of mother she became.  I pray she is with G-Ma Ida and Ma, and they are catching up in heaven over a game of cribbage - Rest in Peace Wende K.  Until we meet again. Love D1AS 💖

I knew Wende for most of my life and my childhood was forever made better by her and her family. Wende was like THE coolest aunt and such a good friend to Sarah and I. She taught us so much about friendship, sisterhood, not taking any shit, and to always remember to laugh and have fun. My life is full of beautiful memories because of Wende and her family. My heart is aching with all of yours. I know she’s partying with Granny Sue and they can feel how much we love them!

I had the honor of getting to know Aunt Wende in middle school when she came and had lunch with Sarah. I remeber her joking around at the table with all us girls. After that she welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like family just as you all did. There are so many great memories I had with Wende and her family that I will cherish forever. From haunted graveyards,  game nights, lazy river, Maria's mostaccioli, girls nights and foodie days and dressing up "PEPPER" it was always a good time. For me it was easy to just talk to Wende about anything when I seen her. Even after years of not seeing her and running into each other it was like years hadn't gone by. I enjoyed every now and then getting a little note on my packages from her and I made sure she knew I got it. Whenever my mom makes chex mix I always think of Wende because she loved it so much! This summer I was able run into her at the Stoughton fair, she gave me a big hug and again it was like we didn't miss a beat from not seeing each other for a while. My heart hurts for you all because I know how important she was to you. Hold onto your memories of her, it's not goodbye but see you soon one day. She is now watching over all of those she loved. My deepest sympathies,  hugs to you all. 

How to be strong in the face of adversity and to have tenacity. Drawing on that strength now when all I want to do is crumble. 😞

Luca

Our first little get together at Amy Traskas house

While I was privileged to meet Wende a few times at “Riffle-Ross” family gatherings, I’m saddened to say that I didn’t get the chance to know her very well. That being said, the most important pieces of who she was were always very apparent. The most amazing mother, sister, aunt, and great-aunt that anyone could ever be. When Sarah spoke of Wende, her face light up. When Melanie mentioned her sister, the room was filled with joy. She was clearly the light of her family’s life and brought so much love and strength to everyone she touched. I am sending you all hugs, and the permission to feel everything and anything you need to during this unimaginably difficult time. Wende’s memory will never be forgotten, even amongst those didn’t get the opportunity to know her well. Xoxo.

My heart aches for u all. Nothing will be the same for sure. I hope you all know how much I love u all!!!

Love and miss you! I hope you’re playing cards and spending some quality time with granny Sue in heaven! Until I see you again. ❤️❤️
-Cooper

When Jay and Suzie were getting married, Wende sent back her RSVP with a lovely thank you to us for being so good to her sister. It was incredibly sweet and heartfelt. I still remember that note 21 years later. RIP Wende. (Jay’s Mom)

Sending your family Love and sympathy. So young and beautiful. God Bless all.

The Spilde family sends you love, prayers and hugs.

Her beloved fur children