Wanda Joyce Russe
Wanda Joyce Russe (nee Toom), of Houston, Texas passed away on November 12, 2020. She was born on May 30, 1943, to John and Leota Toom of Pella, Iowa, and grew up with her older brother, Paul, and younger sister, Jeanette. She accepted the Lord as her Savior and was baptized at Pella’s First Baptist Church.
Wanda later moved to Colorado, a place she had loved since visiting her uncle there as a child. A work-related move eventually brought her to Houston, Texas where she remained for the rest of her life.
Wanda’s children were blessed to have her as their mother. She leaves behind daughters Laura Sowles of Pella, Iowa; Mindy Gertner (Andrew) of Katy, Texas; son Nick Russe (Blair) of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Evan Gertner, Harrison and Shelby Russe, Aidan Keel; honorary grandchildren Peyton and Robert Schultz; brother Paul Toom (Diane) of Springfield, Missouri; brother-in-law Gary Van Wyk of Pella, Iowa; and niece and nephews Wendy, Jason, Scott and John-Paul.
She was preceded in death by parents, John and Leota Toom, sister Jeanette Van Wyk, son-in-law Brian Sowles, and late husbands Larry Hoksbergen and Jim Russe.
Wanda loved people and people loved her. She had an amazing sense of humor and was blessed by a lifetime of great friendships. She enjoyed working more than 20 years for Robert H. Schultz as a commercial property manager, and Robert, his wife Lane, and their children became adopted family to Wanda. We would like to express our gratitude for their love and care given to Wanda all of these years, even after her retirement.
We also would like to express our thanks to all of the family and friends who cared for Wanda over the last several months. She was grateful to you all for your love, friendship, and support.
Per Wanda’s wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held.
Knowing Wanda since 1984, she was a part of my family’s life,. My children, Jennifer & Jason McClellan played with Nick when small. We spent holidays together & always had great fun & memories. Great memories of our trips & fun times in Houston. In 1984, I meet Wanda while working together at EFA. We grew close & became great friends..We always had lots of laughs & fun together. She will be missed greatly. Condolences to the family, I know most of you. My heart goes out to you during this time of sorrow & loss. As one of my best friends, I will miss you!!! Love to all.
My condolences to my dear friend Mindy and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. On November 12 heaven gained a very special angel. I have no doubt she will watch over and protect all of you.
Blessings and prayers to all,
Love you friend,
Lisa Lakner
My deepest sympathy to Wanda’s family.
I have known Wanda since the early 90’s and through our conversations I feel that I know her family. Of course , I met Nick many years ago.
I will miss her strong sense of self and her unique sense of humor.
Wanda was one of those few people that makes your life more enhanced having met her.
Maricia Gummelt
Hairstylist
On behalf of the residents and staff of the Regency House I would like to extend our sincerest condolences and sympathies to Wanda’s children and family. While we are deeply saddened at her passing, we celebrate and rejoice in a life well lived and remember her in life through memories of times shared together, laughter, and love. She touched many lives through her gentleness and kindness. She will be missed!
May the peace of the Lord be your source of strength and comfort during this time.
Russell Chun
General Manager
The Regency House
To the family of Wanda Russe
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Wanda’s kindness was contagious and her memory will live on forever. I truly enjoyed and will miss our midday chats together. She was genuine and a very kind person.
My family will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
I am sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. She was a special lady to me. She will be truly missed. You and your family are in our prayers. if you need anything just let me know.
Dear Russe Family,
What a wonderful sole we have lost. Wanda was kind, quite and a gentle.
She was one of our longtime residence/neighbors at the Regency and loved running in to here especially when I was showing in the Building. My deepest sympathy goes out to your entire family and friends.
Rest in peace Wanda.
GOD Bless Wandas family Jesus be with them and know they have an Angel by their side. I really Loved Wanda .She was always so sweet and kind to me
I will always have a place in my Heart for her🙏❤️
Blessings of Lord to her Family.
Wanda Carraway
Regency