Wanda J. (Stewart) Hetzel, resident of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on December 4, 2021.

Wanda was born on August 30, 1941 in Trimble, Tennessee, to parents, James and Leona (Stanley) Stewart. 2 months after Wanda’s birth, the family relocated to Hobart, Indiana. Wanda was raised alongside her older brother, Paul, and younger siblings, James, Marvin, Elaine, and Sheila. In 1957, she was ever so fortunate to meet John “Jack” Richard Hetzel and within that year, the couple eloped to Kankakee, Illinois to marry. Together they resided in Cedar Lake, Indiana and started a family of their own. Wanda and Jack welcomed children, Terrilynn, John Jr., and Michael as the most perfect additions. Moving to Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1974, Wanda started a career shortly after within the Ann Arbor Public School System in 1977. She was proud to be a secretary within the schools and enjoyed many aspects of working with the children there. After 30 years of employment, Wanda eventually retired from the school system.

In her free time, Wanda looked forward to traveling and spending time with her husband and family. They enjoyed traveling to all 50 states and many national parks. Wanda’s personal favorite was Zion National Park in Utah. At home, Wanda had a great fondness of her yard, garden, and bird feeders, as she and Jack cared for them together. She was also very passionate and good at genealogy.

In the past year, Wanda grew very close with and adored her loving dog, Nugget, who will truly miss her.

Wanda is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Jack; her parents, James and Leona; brother, James Stewart; and grandson, Shawn J. Hetzel.

She will be remembered and missed by those who also survive her: children, Terri (Jeff) Murphy, John Jr. (Sandy) Hetzel, and Michael (Lori Kane) Hetzel; grandchildren, Meghann (Matt McNamara) Plummer, Jenna (Howard Bentley) Hetzel, and Rebekah (Kevin) Henderson; siblings, Paul, Marvin, Elaine, and Sheila; and many extended family members and friends.

A visitation will be held at Nie Family Funeral Home, 3767 W. Liberty Rd, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48013 on Wednesday, December 15 from 6-8pm. A funeral service will take place the following day at 11am.

Please sign the Tribute Wall and share a memory of Wanda.