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Wendy Wakeford Obituary
Ada Rosario Dolch knew that her younger sister, Wendy Wakeford, was a busy person, working as an assistant to a top broker at Cantor Fitzgerald and taking up running earlier this year to stay in shape at age 40. But she had no idea that her sister was supremely organized, too.
Upon visiting Ms. Wakeford's new house in Freehold, N.J., shortly after the terrorist attacks, Mrs. Dolch, a high school principal in Manhattan, discovered that her sister had kept a copy of a letter to a Brooklyn landlord. It was 15 years old. She found meticulous files on stocks, 401(k) records, taxes, company records, insurance records. "Everything, dated," Mrs. Dolch marveled.
It wasn't all business, either. "We found calendars, almost like little diaries, where she would record what we thought was the most insignificant things: what she wore, etc. She had met this wonderful young man ‹ his name is Gary ‹ and she wrote about 'The first time I went out with Gary. The first time Gary sent me flowers.' This organization thing has knocked us all for a loop. Who would've known? To me, she'll always be my kid sister."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Raquel Negron
September 11, 2024
Today marks 23 years of this tragedy that took our beautiful daughter, sister, aunt and friend Wendy Alice Rosario Wakeford. With all my heart I wish you were around sis but we go on always remembering the wonderful times spent together and the last time we were together on Aug 26 2001. Forever in our hearts!
Mary Hernandez
September 12, 2023
Never forgotten my friend; so many amazing memories from our youth bring a smile to my face as I think of you!
Lynn Somerder
September 11, 2023
My heart ❤ aches year after year for the pain that you and your family feel on this s occasion Miriam. I love you dearly and know your memories last forever and live on in your heart and mind. Love you
FIRST Class-All Girls
steve smith
September 11, 2023
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Kids in the area
steve smith
September 11, 2023
Opening
steve smith
September 11, 2023
School Named after Wend
steve smith
September 11, 2023
911 2002-Ceremonies
STEVE SMITH
September 11, 2023
I NEVER HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING WENDY, BUT, I LEARNED A LOT ABOUT HER FROM MY FRIEND-HER SISTER, ADA DOLCH. IN ORDER TO ATTEND THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY CEREMONIES OF 911 AT GROUND ZERO, I HAD TO BE PREPARED TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT HER, BY THE FBI. ADA INCLUDED ME ON HER GROUND ZERO FAMILY GUEST LIST. 911 2002 WAS AN EXPERIENCE AND DAY ETCHED IN MY MIND FOR EVER. FORTUNATELY I MET PRESIDENT BUSH AND FIRST LADY LAURA BUSH, AND A TRIP TO THE WHITE HOUSE TO DO SOME INITIAL PLANNING FOR THE SCHOOL TO BE BUILT IN W. AFGHANISTAN IN HER MEMORY. SECURITY FORCES WERE ALERTED WHEN WE FLEW TO AFGHANISTAN TO ATTEND THE SCHOOL'S OPENING CEREMONIES-JULY 2005.. HERE NAME IS ON THE LARGE ENTRY WOODEN DOOR TO THE SCHOOL YARD. THAT SCHOOL STILL IS OPEN TODAY WITH 532 GIRLS AND BOYS ATTENDING. SCHOOL GIRLS TEND NOT TO BE PUT INTO ARRANGED MARRIAGES. WENDY YOUR LEGACY LIVES ON, IN PART THROUGH THOSE WHO ATTEND YOUR SCHOOL, AND THE ADDED PRIVACY AND CHOICE THE GIRLS HAVE. AMEN
Bonnie Portnoy
September 11, 2023
Think of you often my friend. Our memories will live on. May you be at peace. XO Bonnie
Raquel Negron
September 10, 2023
My sister with the biggest and brightest smile, your family misses you so very much. Another year gone by but certainly not forgotten. Always and forever in our hearts.
Steve Smith
September 12, 2022
Best Friend I never spoke to. I knew her Sister, Ada, and through her learned so much about Wendy. She is sorely missed, and not just on 911, but often.
Victoria
September 11, 2022
Wendy was best friends with my sister Cathy. They did annual vacations every year to Turks Caicos. Wendy rest in peace ❤
Raquel Negron
September 10, 2022
I first want to say a heartfelt thank you to those that write here in remembrance of my beloved sister Wendy. @Steve Smith, if possible could you post a pic of the plaque dedication at the School in Afghanistan. @ Jeanne Messmer Please feel free to email me at [email protected]
Wendy is sorely missed at every family milestone, celebration, gathering, etc. Her smile was infectious and her sincerity was welcomed. I will be placing flowers at the North Tower reflecting pool in NYC tomorrow on the 21st anniversary of the day that changed our lives. In our hearts always and forever. Your sisters Raquel, Ada, Miriam, Clara, your brother Edwin, mom and your nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Jeanne Messmer
September 12, 2021
9/12/2021 I posted this message on my Facebook acct. yesterday to honor not only Wendy but also Bobby Reagan, Firefighter. Both of them have become a part of my life for 20 yrs. and I would truly like to get in touch with their families. I've already sent a request to the Reagan family so am hoping I can do the same here with Wendy's family. Here is a copy of my FB post from yesterday & I also included their photo's:
20 yrs. ago today I picked two names from a basket at Church during a 911 service. I've continued to honor each of them on Sept. 11th and pray for both of their families. Introducing them to all today hoping you too will say prayers on their behalf.
Lt. Robert (Bobby) Reagan, Firefighter and Wendy Alice Rosario Wakeford.
Halloween 1980 with my brother.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Halloween 1980 with my brother.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Halloween 1979 game.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Halloween 1979 with my brother.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
At Camp Mahanaim.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
At Camp Mahanaim.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
At Camp Mahanaim.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Visit at my house with my brother.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Wrestling at my house with my brother.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
A visit to my house.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
At The Rosario home.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Sleepover at the Rosario home.
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Amazing memories with Wendy and the hole Rosario family.
Steve Smith
September 11, 2021
I never had the opportunity to meed Wendy. But some how, I feel I know her and what I have been told about her. IN SHORT there is a School in western Afghanistan with her Name on it. It also has an Afghan name too. There are just over 500 Girls and Boys attending. School is approximately 16 years old. I have added photos before as I see them now. Hope to meet you some day, Upstairs.
Victoria S
September 11, 2021
Never forget 9/11. You and my younger sister Cathy were good friends & vacationing friends. Im sure the group has a drink for you in Turks n Cacos each year. You are missed by many
Halloween 1979
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2021
Wendy wow, 20 years have gone by already; know that you are still remembered, loved, and missed by so many that loved you! I only wish we would have had more memories than just our crazy teenage years at “Fuente,” and how close we all became, and so quickly. Today, those memories and pics are all I have of you, and I cherish them dearly love you always my friend!
Ana Cruz
September 11, 2021
Always in memory and love.
Bonnie Portnoy
September 10, 2021
It’s hard to fathom that it’s 20 years . So much has happened since then - I think of you often and if our memories , which always puts a smile on my face .❤
Raquel Negron
September 10, 2021
We remember daily but visit here to once again say how much you are missed. Honestly still can't wrap my brain around the craziness of September 11, 2001. Will visit the pools and museum once again tomorrow on the 20th anniversary of that dreadful day. Love you always, your sis Raquel
Visit on 9/11/2020 #sis #missu #lovealways #neverforgotten
Raquel Negron
September 14, 2020
My sister, how do we ever come to terms with your loss. Visiting the memorial annually is surreal and still unbelievable. Miss you tons #tears
TERRY PAINE
September 11, 2020
Another year and you are missed every day. We went to the Memorial they have here in San Antonio. I could feel your presence around Miriam. ❤❤❤
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2020
Yes, another year gone by my old friend... Your beautiful smile is etched in my brain and heart, and looking at our old pics brings a ray of sunshine on such a sad and gloomy day. Till we meet again!
Bonnie Portnoy
September 11, 2020
Remembering your bright smile brings hope on this day. Miss you.
Ana Cruz
September 11, 2020
This year we are dealing with covid and wanting to go to mars, just wanted to give you a little update. By now you have visited mars and past our galaxy, you even know if there is life on another planets. You have had many glasses of wine with our jesus, better save me some. You are alive there as you lived here, With big smile. We will never forget and always remember the promise of Jesus that he will return for us. We love you always.
steve smith
September 10, 2020
Adding a picture of the School in Afghanistan named after Wendy Wakeford.
Steve Smith
September 10, 2020
Wendy, you are missed by those who knew you and like me, one who did not know you, just knew OF you. But as you know a School with 524 Girls and Boys, opened in 2005, is fostering: Education, Girls freedom to choose a Spouse, and love. Imagine all of the lives that have been touched by this School funded and built by friends of your Sister, Ada Dolch. From Tragedy comes Triumph. The School is located in western Afghanistan, where it is suspected that some of the 911 Terrorists trained. Hug, Steve Smith
TERRY PAINE
September 13, 2019
Wendy just wanted to stop by and say you are missed everyday we love you so much Terry and Miriam
Mary Hernandez
September 12, 2019
Another year gone by my old friend... I lost mom last February, so please give her my regards when you see her up there in heaven... both of you are missed dearly every single day, not just by me and all your wonderful family, but also by so many people that loved you, whose lives you touched, and had the privilege of knowing you. Till we meet again! ❤
Students at School dedicated to Wendy.
Steve Smith
September 12, 2019
Wendy is not here, but she is. Every School day over 500 Girls and Boys attend a School dedicated to her, in Afghanistan. Her memory lives on.
Bonnie Portnoy
September 12, 2019
I missed posting yesterday - the day just get more overwhelming each year! You are missed dearly.
Raquel Negron
September 11, 2019
18 years later... another day spent remembering the horrors of the day but more importantly remembering a sister, daughter and aunt that is always remembered and missed more and more. Love you always my beautiful sister! Raquel
Ana Cruz
September 11, 2019
There are things that will Forever be in our memories. Unfortunately 911 will always live in the memories of many but for the ones that knew and loved Wendy Dearly, it is a everyday thought, a everyday wondering what if this what if that. There is one thing that we dont have to wonder and that is that we as Believers in our Lord Jesus Christ will see her again. We dont wonder about this we know that in just a twinkle of an eye we all will be together again.
School in Afghanistan, dedicated to the Memory Wendy. 521 Students today
steve smith
August 7, 2019
Wendy's Memory lives on through Girls and Boys in Afghanistan
Raquel Negron
August 7, 2019
Always and forever on our minds and in our hearts! We celebrate you always.
Bonnie Portnoy
August 6, 2019
Wendy
Happy Birthday my friend . Im in Napa planning to see Cathy ... bringing back memories of our first trip together ! Well have a toast to you ! Xoxoxo
Students attending a School in Afghanistan Dedicated to the Memory of Wendy, built in 2005/2006 521 now attend
Steve Smith
April 4, 2019
Wendy's Memory lives on in part through a School built in Afghanistan, dedicated to her. 521 attending currently
The Lucas Family
April 3, 2019
Sending our continued heartfelt condolences to your family. May God continue to give the strength and support needed. Wendy is still sadly missed and will always be lovingly remembered.
Missing you sis. <br />Visit on 9/11/2018
Raquel Negron
September 12, 2018
What can be said? Nothing feels good or complete without our sister, daughter, aunt and friend. Miss you always and forever. With loving thoughts, your sis Raquel along with Ada, Miriam, Clara and brother Edwin
Victoria
September 12, 2018
Never forgotten ❤
Ana Cruz
September 11, 2018
The Bible talks about a time when Christ will return.. that time is close. Wendy I'm jealous ..you will be returning with the king, and although we all grieve and miss you , Just thinking of it puts a big smile on my face.
Bonnie Portnoy
September 11, 2018
Remembering your bright smile brings hope on this day . You are missed my friend
Mary Hernandez
September 5, 2018
I will never forget you my friend; tough time of year!
steve smith
September 4, 2018
I never met Wendy, but I think I know her, thanks to her Sister Ada. Working with Ada through a mentoring program a group of us Realtors from California organized, I learned more and more about Wendy. When I think of Wendy I visualize the school in Afghanistan that has over 500 Girls and Boys attending. The school was built in her honor. Her name is on the front Gate and a large Flower Garden is near the schools front entrance. Plans have been approved by the local Government and the Minister of Education for another school to be built next door for higher grades. It may take time but at some point we will find a way to pay for it. Wendy's Legacy lives on through the Children who attend.
Raquel Negron
September 3, 2018
pic by Raquel Negron
Raquel Negron
September 3, 2018
What a way to remember you? It's rough throughout the year but this day fast approaching, well it just makes me angry. I'll be visiting the museum once again and spending some time at the reflecting pools. Wish you were here! :-( Your great nephews are missing out on the love I know you would undoubtedly shower them with as you always did with your nieces and nephews. My heart aches. Love you sis, Raquel
Miriam's Birthday
TERRY PAINE
August 9, 2018
Wendy,
Another birthday has come and gone, we miss you so much!❤❤❤
Bonnie Portnoy
August 6, 2018
You're in my thoughts today ....
School dedicated to Wendy's memory
steve smith
September 13, 2017
I never got to meet Wendy, but I sense I know her pretty well through knowing her Sister, Ada. Wendy may be gone, but she is not forgotten AND in a rural area in western Afghanistan, there is a school, created in her honor, where over 400 children gain their Education. The School is surrounded by eight foot walls(custom in Afghanistan) at there are 2 large front gates. At the base of the left one is a large metal plaque dedicating the School in Wendy's memory. Ada coordinated a flower garden too.
Wendy I miss you but your memory lives on through the Education of Girls and Boys in Afghanistan. Now that is a great Legacy.
Mary Hernandez
September 13, 2017
Hi my friend...
Another year gone by, and although I think about you all the time, this year was tough because I spent the day remembering our old times; my 10 year old granddaughter wanted to know all about you, so I took out all my old pics of our days together and she was touched. She said she didn't understand how someone so beautiful could be gone, just like that... I will never forget you my friend!
Raquel Negron
September 12, 2017
Hi Sis, another year, another heartbreak. It's always a very difficult time of the year. Visited the 9/11 Museum with a church sister this year and the experience was new sharing it with someone who had never been there before. She was truly touched by the beauty of the memorials. Wish with all my heart that you were here. After all these years it's still so very unreal. Thinking of you with sorrow and tears. Love you, your sister Raquel
August 8, 2017
Missed posting by a day or 2, but thinking of you <3 !
School in Afghanistan
steve smith
September 15, 2016
First class at new school-all Girls
steve smith
September 15, 2016
Partial Classroom photo
steve smith
September 15, 2016
Lori Coyle
September 14, 2016
Wendy. I'm Garys soon to be new wife. You are truly his hero! He still cry's every Sept 11th. I cry too for you! Ada.. wow ! Your are truly an amazing person! I'm sorry for you lose . Wendy was beautiful! And her smile was the most amazing I've ever seen!! Gary still held a pic of wendy in his wallet. He loved her very much! I'm just sorry for your lose. She didn't deserve this as many of those who perished on that day were good people who didn't not deserve what happened to them. My heart hurts for all! ♡
September 14, 2016
you are remembered with respect and honor. May God richly bless your family and friends with unyielding comfort, and the knowledge you are at peace in the arms of a loving God. Rest in peace
September 12, 2016
Sorry, had trouble yesterday leaving my message.
I wanted to say that even though Wendy is not with us(But with the Lord) HER MEMORY lives on.
A school built in HER HONOR in Afghanistan has 400+ boys and girls served each year, since 2006.
HER MEMORY LIVES ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN............
Thank you Ada Dolch, Kathy Ollerton, Ibrhim Mojaddidi for all you gave to cause the school to be built. Also there were over 50 Realtors in Northern California that did there part to get the school done. God Bless you Wendy, your memory lives on.
September 11, 2016
Today is YOUR day. You have moved on, but your Memory is lives on. A School, built in Afghanistan built in your Memory, has served 400+ boys and girls since July 2006.
You are in our thoughts today
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2016
HI again my old friend! Another year has come and gone and I still believe there was some huge mistake and you're not really gone... I was looking at our pics again and remembering our "Fuente" days, and there was always that smile on your face. Wish we could talk and remenisc about those days!
Mary
Bonnie PORTNOY
September 11, 2016
Praying that you are at peace. I miss you my friend and think of you often
Raquel Negron
September 10, 2016
Sis, I see your beautiful smile and my heart skips a beat. 15 years later and still unbelievably hard to believe. Why won't you knock on my door and say you're really not gone. Missing you so much. I love you sis, yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever. Raquel
school in Afghanistan honoring Wendy
steve smith
September 11, 2015
Wendy, never met you, but feel I know you. As you know there is a school in Afghanistan honoring who you are to so many. Every workday 400+ girls and boys attend the school. There is even a nice garden there, Ada made sure it was done to your liking. Miss you
Raquel Negron
September 11, 2015
Missing you my beautiful sister always. Remembering your great smile and wonderful laughter, how you showed so much love for your nieces and nephew. In my heart forever. I love you! Raquel
Mary Hernandez
September 11, 2015
Hi my friend...Another year has come and gone and I know many of us are thinking of you on this day, and remembering your smile and feeling a great sense of loss and sadness! I was looking through our old pics again and reminiscing! Love you always!
Mary H.
bonnie portnoy
September 10, 2015
Remembering you on this day my friend - miss you .
September 13, 2014
School dedicated to Wendy's Legacy.
September 13, 2014
Wendy's memory lives on in our hearts and in the growth of children in Afghanistan, school of 400 dedicated to her memory.
Mary Hernandez
September 12, 2014
Thinking of you, especially during this week; all the wonderful times we shared growing up at "Fuente". I Will always love you, and you aré never forgotten my friend!
Raquel Negron
September 11, 2014
My beautiful sister, Remembering you especially today. Always see your smiling face and can't help but remember your lively spirit and spunk. Love you sis, Raquel
September 11, 2014
Missing you, Sis
Bonnie Portnoy
September 11, 2014
Missing all the memories we never got to make! Finally made it to the memorial at wtc- I was so touched to be included in your tribute. Always in my thoughts dear friend .
Bonnie
August 9, 2014
Don't think my message made it either this week. Still in my thoughts though.
steve smith
August 8, 2014
I guess my Birthday post yesterday did not get sent properly. Wendy Happy Birthday, now late. I know you are up there looking down, and you see all those girls and boys going to the school built in Afghanistan, in YOUR honor and memory. smile
Terry Paine
August 7, 2014
Just wanted to tell you Miriam and I had our blizzards in you honor yesterday on your birthday. Miss you so much your loving brother-in-law
Raquel Negron
August 6, 2014
My sis, I had to take a moment to write because today is your very special day, your birthday. Happy Birthday Sis!!! Think of you always but especially around and on your birthday. Wish you were here to celebrate. Miss you tons. Your sis, Raquel xoxoxoxo
Cathy Garcia
September 11, 2013
Wendy, I still have the little bear you gave me. Bonnie gave me a bracelet with your name on it and he is wearing it. Miss you.
Raquel Negron
September 11, 2013
Sis, I was, as always, at the Memorial in NYC today. The pools at the footprints of the North and South Towers are just spectacular. Nice to see so many family members and friends come out. Thinking of you always but today especially sharing our loss with so many others. Miss you tons. With all my love, Raquel
September 11, 2013
Missing you-
Bonnie
Ada, myselt, with children-Afghanistan
Steve Smith
August 12, 2013
I never met you, but somehow I feel I did
Thanks to the opportunity to meet your Sister Ada. It's far far away, but outside the large city of Herat, Afghanistan stands a school with 350+ children dedicated to your memory. There are discussions about adding a second floor and the garden at the school is in full bloom after several years of growth.
The great nephew you didn't get to meet
Terry Paine
August 7, 2013
Miss you so much
Bonnie PORTNOY
August 7, 2013
Happy birthday my friend- thinking of you today. Miss you.
Raquel Negron
August 6, 2013
It's what would have been your 52nd birthday today so I'm dropping by to say Happy Birthday. Remembering you always. With loving thoughts, your sis Raquel
At Camp Mahanaim in the late '70s
Mary Hernandez
May 18, 2013
Halloween 1980
Mary Hernandez
May 18, 2013
Halloween 1979
Mary Hernandez
May 18, 2013
Our Halloween party in 1979 in your dad's basement. Such a fun day.
Mary Hernandez
May 18, 2013
Hey Wendy, I've been thinking about you all day today. One of the Amoros girls posted old Mahanaim pictures and it got me going.... Missing you so much, and I hope you are showing my dad the ropes in heaven... Love you both and miss you both...
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