On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Wanda Louise Fretz, a vibrant soul who embraced life for 82 years, with her family at her side peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 56 years, Matthew Fretz, who she has missed since his passing in 2023.

She was born on October 24, 1942, in Jackson, Michigan, to the late Alfred “Ralph” and Edith Mae (Radabaugh) Coleman. Wanda graduated from Evart High School in 1960 and earned her associates from Spring Arbor College in 1962. On April 8, 1967, her penpal of two years, became her soulmate, when she married Matt in Sears, MI. They made their home and raised their two daughters in Hope, MI. Wanda's life was a living testament to her family, church and service to others.

In her early career, she served as a compassionate case worker and later dedicated herself as a paraprofessional for 25 years at Meridian Public Schools. Wanda put children first… it didn’t matter whose they were. Leaving a positive mark on the lives of countless students. No matter what church they attended she jumped in with both feet. She was a Sunday School teacher, VBS leader/teacher, youth group leader and a song leader.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Wanda enjoyed the outdoors, reading, and possessed a profound passion for music. Her voice was a gift she generously shared throughout Michigan at various churches. A highlight of her musical journey was the privilege of performing on the esteemed stage of Carnegie Hall with the Midland Center for the Arts, and at the Pearl Harbor Memorial with the CMI Choir.

Wanda will be fondly remembered for her gentle and kind heart, the beauty of her singing voice that touched so many, and the boundless love she held for her family. If you asked Wanda she humbly would tell you, she did nothing, BUT she always took the time to teach, help or pray you through any situation.

Wanda's legacy lives on through: her three devoted daughters, Ruth Fretz of Sears,  Amie (Tom) Spencer Jr. of Coleman, and Teresa Mackie of Sears; her cherished grandchildren, Julie (Hunter) Hockey, Michael (Caitlin) Short, Tom Spencer III and JD St. John; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters, Gloria (Bill) Thompson of Hersey and Teresa (Don) Cole of Clare and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Wanda's life and share memories during a visitation at the Corey Funeral Home on Sunday, May 4th, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and on Monday from Noon until 1PM at the Sears Church of God. Funeral services will be held at 1PM Monday at church with Pastor Patrick Robinson officiating. Wanda will be laid to rest beside her loving husband at Forest Hill Cemetery in Evart.