Wanita Ann Byrnes was born on November 13, 1939, and passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, after courageously fighting a wicked battle with breast cancer. She was a free-spirited independent woman and the daughter of Joseph and Maybell (Winchell) Byrnes.

Wanita worked at EDS Federal for many years and also worked as a school bus driver's aid. She loved taking long walks, going to Olbrich Gardens and looking at all the flowers, gardening, and going dancing. She loved drawing and painting many pictures, making home-made soups and watching the sunset, and also taking care of her family. Wanita had quite the sense of humor, and loved reading mystery books and romance novels. She was a big fan of Elvis Presley and Rod Stewart and Johnny Depp.

Wanita is survived by her daughters, Bonnie Kay and Deana “Dee;” her grandchildren, Tara, Jason, Lilac and Jerry Jr. “Bo,” Shyanne and Pluto; additionally, Pluto's father, Greg; great-grandchildren, Antonio, Armando, Tatiana, Talia, Deontea, Micheal and Sophia; and sisters, Vera and Bonnie Ella. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Verna, Virgil, Joe and Robert; ex-husbands, Joe Wills and Robert Watenpuhl; and Shyanne's father, Dave Nieft.

Wanita was the glue of the family; she held everything and everyone together. She gave her all since as far back as anyone can remember. Wanita had such a big heart, and now she is finally free from all pain. She loved her family and friends so dearly, and now that love will live on in all of us.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m., with a funeral service at 4 p.m., on Wednesday April 22, 2026.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Wanita Ann Byrnes

November 13, 1939 - April 12, 2026

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