Shirley Ann Wanchena

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Wanchena, Shirley Ann 86, of Isanti, MN, died peacefully in her home at Pacem In Terris, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Minneapolis on Jan. 16, 1928. Her journey on Earth was rich in life and love, suffering and joy and always gratitude. The foundation of Shirley's life was built on faith, hope and love, and her most treasured gift was being a mother, first to her children and then to countless others whom she loved with a maternal heart throughout her life. Shirley raised her family with great love and energy and weathered many personal and family sufferings over the years and always came out of them with greater trust and love. The Wanchena home was the hub of extended family, friends and neighbors who came for coffee, meals, holiday celebrations and gatherings of every kind. Her open heart was reflected in the open door that welcomed all who came. After the death of her husband and 37 years on W. 14th Street in St. Louis Park, Shirley embarked on the second part of her life and mission to love and serve, founding the hermitage retreat center Pacem In Terris, which has flourished and brought grace to many in the 27 years since it was opened. She was preceded in death by her loving parents Anna and Ludvig Anderson, husband Victor, a child who died before birth, sons Michael and Jeffrey and sister Arlene Heldt. She is survived by her daughters, Ann Marie Croteau (Mark) Amy Ames (Peter) Lisa Raddatz (Dan) and Veronica Christine Wanchena, daughters-in-law, Patricia, Susan and Ann; fifteen grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren; brother Victor Anderson (Phyllis) and sister Kathy Berscheit (Larry), many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Before her passing, Shirley asked that we take comfort in the truth of our oneness in the communion of love. Visitation at KOZLAK-RADULOVICH BLAINE CHAPEL (107th Ave. NE & Hwy. 65) Monday from 5-8 PM with Vigil Prayers at 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial at CHURCH OF ST. PAUL (1740 Bunker Lake Blvd. NE, Ham Lake, MN) Tuesday at 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Private interment at Gethsemane Cemetery in New Hope, MN. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to: Shirley Wanchena Memoriam c/o Wanchena family - P.O. Box 5057 Hopkins, MN 55343; or to Pacem In Terris Founders Fund, c/o Pacem In Terris P.O. Box 418, St. Francis, MN 55070. kozlakradulovich.com "A Celebration of Life" 763-783-1100

Published on December 14, 2014