WEST UNITY, OH – Wanda I. Thompson, 92, of rural West Unity, departed this life on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at the home of her daughter while under the care of CHP Hospice. Born March 14, 1928, in Munson, MI, she was the only daughter and eldest child of the late Lowell and Amanda (King) Borton.
Wanda grew up near Fayette and graduated with the Class of 1946 from Gorham-Fayette High School. Later that same year, on December 1, 1946, she married the love of her life, Bernard “Red” Thompson.
They first made their home north of Alvordton, before settling in rural West Unity in 1955, which remained the family home until earlier this year.
Wanda found joy in always keeping busy, be it raising her children or working outside of the home. She first worked in Morenci at the school cafeteria. After her children became adults, she worked for Sauder’s Barn Restaurant in Archbold where she was known for her signature personal birthday mini-cakes.
When Sauder’s Heritage Inn opened, she worked in laundry and at the breakfast bar. Her tenure at Sauder’s combined was over 30 years before she retired, only for health reasons, in 2015 at the age of 87.
She was also locally renowned for her elegant and delicious cakes for various occasions, especially weddings. Wanda previously played the piano at Munson United Brethren Church, where she was then a member, and was currently a faithful member of the Fayette Church of the Nazarene.
Surviving are her children, Linda (Sherman) Hathaway of West Unity, Larry (Donna) Thompson of West Unity, Rick (Tina) Thompson of West Unity, and Lori (Tom) Waidelich of Archbold; a brother, Jim (Retha) Borton of Adrian, MI; 14 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Wanda was preceded in death by her husband Bernard on October 3, 1995. Also welcoming her to Heaven are her parents and her son, Danny Thompson.
Visitation for Wanda will be held Sunday, January 24, 2021, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Fayette Church of the Nazarene. A private family funeral service will take place with Pastor Andy Reynard officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Wagley Funeral Homes, Adrian, MI.
Memorial contributions may be given in her honor to benefit the Fayette Church of the Nazarene.
Following the Governor’s executive order, all attendees are required to wear a proper face covering, with the exception of those under the age of five years old or those who cannot medically tolerate.
Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com
