Wendy Metcalf

Wendy Metcalf, 54, passed away Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010, at the Aurora Hallie Home in Chippewa Falls, where she was lovingly cared for by the staff and caregivers.

She was born on April 1, 1955, in New Auburn to Jesse and Ella (Riley) Metcalf. She was born with Downs Syndrome and brought joy to all the lives she touched. She was baptized into the Faith Lutheran Church in Chippewa Falls. She participated in Special Olympics and won several awards. She also worked at the Career Development Center until she contracted meningitis and could no longer work there. She enjoyed listing and singing with her sister Gloria and brother-in-law Jerry Lemke. Wendy's life was a gift to her family and she will be remembered for her sense of humor, love of life and special ability to love unconditionally.

She is survived by: six sisters, Sandra (Lehmen) Larson of Chippewa Falls, Anita Jones of Bloomer, Cheryl Amodt of La Farge, Gloria Lemke of Bloomer, Jeanette (Lee) Wilson of Killeen, Texas and Gwendolyn (David) Waldecker of Brandenburg, Ky.; seven brothers, Eldon (Elva) Metcalf of New Auburn, Veryl Metcalf of Mondovi, Terry (Sharon) Metcalf of Chippewa Falls, Merton (Diane) Metcalf of Bloomer, Maurice (Linda) Metcalf of Bloomer, Randall and Bradley Metcalf both of Denver, Colo.; best friend and cousin Sona Burpo of Chippewa Falls; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; two brothers, Vernon and infant, Marvin.

Funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 7 at the United Methodist Church in Bloomer with Rev. William Plautz officiating. Interment will be in the Island Lake Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at the Olson Funeral Home in Bloomer and one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday.

Online condolences may be expressed at http://olsonfuneralhomebloomer.com">olsonfuneralhomebloomer.com.