MADISON - Wanda Ruth Smith passed away on August 3, 2026, at the age of 74. She was surrounded by the love of her husband and son. Wanda was born on April 19th, 1952, in Madison, the daughter of Robert and Ardith (Randall) Welsch.

Wanda graduated from Madison East High School in 1970. In 1983, Wanda earned a Bachelor of Science in Child Life degree from Edgewood College. Wanda dedicated herself to serving her community in many meaningful ways, and that began in October of 1971 when she enlisted in the Air Force. She spent 2 years working in Spokane, Washington. She came back home to Madison in 1973 as a guardsman for the Wisconsin Air National Guard. Then, while doing her schooling at Edgewood, Wanda was a nurse’s aide at Glendale Elementary School. Most of her career, until retirement, Wanda was a social worker at the Exchange Center and then Family Service Madison, with the focus on helping families with children. Wanda always had so much on her plate, she took on many roles, she made it look so easy, and she had no regrets.

In 1973, Wanda met the love of her life, and future husband, Skip. Wanda and Skip married on January 2, 1975. On April 7, 1978, a new life mission began, she became a mother. Wanda gave birth to her one and only child, a son, Nathaniel, at 5:22 p.m. Her life’s most important role of being a loving and supportive wife expanded to motherhood.

Outside of work, Wanda found joy in the simple things in life. She loved listening to music, and she attended many concerts with her friends and siblings, and many others with her son. Dan Fogelberg was her favorite, followed close by The Lennon family’s band named Venice. Over the last few years, she enjoyed challenging Skip to flower and vegetable box plantings, and according to Skip and Nathaniel, she was the victor. She expressed her creativity through sewing and had a gift for home décor and home improvement. With the help from Skip, she made their house of the last 50 years feel very welcoming, warm, and full of love. Wanda lived a life defined by compassion, service, and unwavering love for others. She always put the needs of others before her own.

Wanda is survived by her beloved husband, Skip; and her cherished son, Nathaniel. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ardith and Robert; sisters, Jenny and Janet; and brother, Wayne. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, Wanda's legacy lives on in every life she touched. She will be remembered not only for what she did, but for who she was. A woman of extraordinary kindness, boundless compassion, and unwavering devotion to others. Her love will continue to guide her family and friends, and her memory will forever be a blessing.

Private family services will be held. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Wanda R. Smith

April 19, 1952 - August 03, 2026

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