Wanda Atwood

Wanda J. Atwood, 87, passed away on July 18, 2018 at Robings Manor Rehabilitation & Health Care in Brighton, IL.  Wanda was born in Alton IL, on May 20, 1931 to Jerry Rucker and Goldie (Platter) Weiss.

Wanda married Donald R. Atwood on October 28, 1948, in Little Rock, AR. He preceded her in death on June 13, 1991.She enjoyed a wide range of interests during her lifetime. She participated in fashion shows and also Powder Puff stock car races, of which she was state champion in 1969 and 1970. She served on the Madison County Mental Health Board in the early 70's. She loved Cardinal baseball, most of the time. She also loved animals, especially her cats. She was perhaps best known as "The Ironing Lady" because she enjoyed it so much. She did ironings for many people in the Alton area until she was 86 years old.  But what she enjoyed most was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as well as many friends. Wanda was a member of the Abundant Life Community Church in Alton. She is survived by her son, Terry Atwood of Alton, and two daughters, Karen (Bob) McGarvey of Bethalto and Laurie (Keith) Swengrosh of Godfrey; 6 grandchildren, Kelli (Brian) Hokamp, Kimberly (Travis) Barnhart, Scott (Emily) McGarvey, Amber (P.J.) Ely, Nick (Ashley) Calame, Adam Swengrosh and 10 great-grandchildren, Tanner, Hayden, Mason, David, Chase, Madison, Lilly, Jase, C.J., and Eleanor.  In addition to her husband and her parents she was preceded in death by two sons Randall L. Atwood and Gary M. Atwood; one brother, Billy Rucker and two sisters Betty Rucker and Shirley Ferrari.Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25, 2018, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton, where services will follow at 7 p.m. A private burial will take place at Sunset Hills Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon. Memorials may be made to the Alton Area Animal Aid Association and to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.Elias, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online Condolences may be made at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Obit Provided By:
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home