Wanda Patricia Bricker

Wanda Patricia Bricker, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 9, 2025, surrounded by her devoted family and friends at the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County in Rawlins, Wyoming. Born on April 28, 1944, in Denver, Colorado, Wanda lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to her faith.

Wanda was a woman of remarkable dedication and accomplishments. She graduated from Rawlins High School and further pursued her passion for beauty by completing her education at cosmetology school in Rapid City, South Dakota. As the owner of a successful beauty shop in Lovell, Wyoming, she made many lasting connections with her clients, who appreciated her kind spirit and skilled hands. Later, Wanda transitioned to working in the school district as a janitor before dedicating 25 years to the Wyoming Department of Corrections, where she proudly served as a corporal until her retirement.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Wanda embraced life with an adventurous spirit. She loved traveling, sight-seeing, and especially fishing, always savoring these joyous experiences in the company of good friends and loved ones. Holidays held a special place in her heart, and Christmas was her favorite season—symbolizing a time of giving, love, and gratitude.

Those who knew Wanda spoke fondly of her as a fun-loving, generous, and compassionate woman. She was described as beautiful, with a warm smile that could brighten any room. Her spiritual nature and strong belief in God guided her throughout her life, influencing her desire to uplift those around her. She took great pride in supporting her community, as evidenced by her contributions to various charities. Wanda often spent time with her dear friend Margie Oroz at her beauty shop, "The Upper Cut," and enjoyed cherished moments with her friend Patsy Guevara at the laundromat. Among her proudest accomplishments was adopting her son, Troy Bricker, becoming a grandmother, being a mother-in-law, and being a loving and supportive presence in the lives of her family.

Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, deeply felt by her surviving family members: her beloved son, Troy Bricker, and daughter-in-law, Mystique Martinez; granddaughter, Celija Martinez-Bricker; step-children Leslie and Trudi Bricker, Amy Brawley, Kevin Bricker, and Bruce Bricker; her daughter-like niece, Paulette Elliott; and her nephews, Derek (Virginia) and Chad Elliott. She is also survived by her dear sisters, Luisa (Felix) Aguilar and Sandra (Rick) Neal, her sister's children, along with numerous other loving family members.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Julia Sanchez and John B Sanchez; her husband, Lloyd Bricker; her brothers, Conrad Sanchez, Evan Sanchez, and Carl Sanchez; her sister, Linda Sanchez Elliott; and her nephew, Troy Elliott. Though she has left this world, her spirit will forever remain alive within the hearts of all who had the honor to know her.

Wanda Patricia Bricker touched countless lives with her vibrant spirit and unwavering kindness, and as we remember her, may we carry forward her legacy of compassion and generosity.