Wanda D Gookin

Wanda Dawn Fothergill was born July 12, 1930 in Knoxville, Iowa. Through her younger years her family moved to Melcher, Williamson, and Des Moines. As a young girl she developed her love of riding horses and all animals. She was a very proud graduate of East High School in Des Moines class of 1948. After high school she explored other places landing in Arizona before settling back in Des Moines working at the Bell telephone company and Hubbell Reality as a secretary.

  In 1954 she married Roger Gookin and to this union three sons were born Michael Roger, Joseph Paul and Douglas Jay. During their married life they lived several places Des Moines, Russell, Melrose, Montrose, Colorado and finally Chariton. Wanda had several jobs each place they lived but when they moved to Chariton she started working at the Chartion Manor. First as a cook and then joining the activities department where she worked 34 years. She had a great love for the residents and considered them her family. She worked until the age of 80 and then she continued to volunteer for many more years. Wanda was always a worker. Raising big gardens and taking care of kids, animals you name it.

  Wanda was a founding member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority in Russell. A member of Russell Methodist Church and a member of Russell American Legion Auxiliary for many years. Most of all she loved her friends and family.

  Left to mourn her loss are her children Mike (Mary) Gookin, Joe (Kellie) Gookin and Doug (Karen) Gookin. Her brother John Fothergill and sister Dalene (Jack) Mullins.

  Her grandchildren Heather (Ryan) Johnson, Chad (Britni) Gookin, Amber Heins, Emily (Tyler) Arp, April (Levi Clark),  Joe and Tyler Gookin

  Her great grandchildren Addison and Hayden, Josh, Amber, Jordan, Skyler, Jocelyn, Paisley, Adrien and Lily and one on the way.

Her great great grandchildren Jayce, Shane, Raydon, Shah Kahn, Orion, Case and Maverick.

  Memorials may be given in Wanda’s name to Russell Methodist Church or Care Initiatives Activity Department in Chariton.

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