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Wanda Jean Somers Chauvin, 93, passed away October 9, 2017, at Presbyterian Manor in Lawrence, Kansas.
Wanda was born in Leavenworth, Kansas on February 8, 1924, to William and Maude (Trackwell) Somers, growing up as one of nine siblings on a 320-acre farm and graduating from Jarbalo High School in 1941. In 1942 she began working as a secretary at North American Aviation in Kansas City, where she met Roy Chauvin. Wanda and Roy were married in 1943, and after his service in the Navy during World War II, they settled in Kansas City, Kansas, where they would raise their three children.
Wanda focused her talents on the home, caring for her children and managing her family's activities and finances. She loved family life, serving in her church, sewing, playing piano, gardening, cooking, volunteering, and simply being with people. She was an active member of White Church Christian Church in Kansas City, serving in many capacities including as President of the Kansas Chapter of the Christian Women's Fellowship. She later worked as an assistant librarian, a secretary, and a property office manager. After retiring in 1989, she moved with Roy to Lawrence, Kansas. In 2003 she completed a detailed memoir of her early life on a turn-of-the-century Midwestern farm. For the past four years, she was lovingly cared for by the staff of Presbyterian Manor.
Whether it was for family, friends, neighbors, churches, or schools, throughout her life Wanda selflessly volunteered her and time and talents to help others. She will be earnestly missed for her youthful spirit, witty humor, kindness, and faith.
She is preceded in death by her husband Roy Chauvin; her parents William and Maude (Trackwell) Somers; her sisters Opal, Grace, Beulah, Lois, and Elizabeth; and her brothers Floyd, William, and Charles.
She is survived by her son Kenneth (and Marie) Chauvin, Karen (and Travis) High, and Keith (and Terri) Chauvin; her grandchildren Glen Schmidt, Gary Schmidt, Kyle Chauvin, and Katharine (Chauvin) Fry; her great grandchildren Jessalyn (Schmidt) Bray, Cameron Schmidt, Kagan Schmidt, and Jensen Schmidt; and her great great grandson Leland Bray.
Visitation and service at Warren McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence, Saturday, October 14th – visitation at 10:00 a.m., followed by service at 11:00 a.m..
Contributions may be made to the Presbyterian Manor Resident Council Employee Christmas Fund and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary. For more information or to post a condolence, please visit warrenmcelwain.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
I grew up in the same church as the Chauvins. Roy and Wanda were good friends of my parents. Keith and I became close friends and were always playing football, basketball or some other sport. My favorite memory of Mrs. Chauvin was her homemade tomato juice. I can still taste it today. Rest in peace Mrs. Chauvin and God Bless You Keith and Family.
Greg Stockhoff
Friend
September 9, 2019
I have so many fond memories of your mom. She was always so kind and loving. I loved growing up next door to the Chauvin's. Roy and Wanda were very special people that I am glad I had the privilege to know while growing up. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Diana Goldbeck (Bartkoski)
October 21, 2017
My sympathy goes out to the family during your time of grief. May God's loving-kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time (Psalm 119:50,76).
A. M.
October 19, 2017
Dear Friends, I heard of your Moms passing just today. I am sorry that I did not come to celebrate her life. I always felt I owed her a lot. Coming from a family that was non traditional , she , with discernment , took the time to help me understand life. She always made time. Years fermented her story. I was honored to be at her 90? th birthday reception. I still greatly enjoyed her laugh. By now quite a few people have surely said lots of positive things , but Growing up for me, was confusing, but she Loved us in a special way. Not sure I have all the words, but hold on to her lifes legacy. Love you guys
Robin Calcara
October 16, 2017
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