Brenda R. Wilking, 98, of Casper, passed away Thursday, December 25, 2014. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 2, 2015 for Brenda at St. Anthony's Catholic Church. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 3, 2015, at the church with Interment to follow at Highland Cemetery.
Brenda was born on April 24, 1916 in Montreal, Quebec to Leo and Rose Reynolds. She married Jan van Tyen Wilking on June 3, 1944. Together they had four children, Jan, Richard, Rosemary and Deborah. Brenda said, "God is at the very center of my life despite the deep love I have for my children and other loved ones." She also had a special devotion to Mary.
She was loved by both young and old, and could have written a book on aging gracefully. Brenda was a quick wit, full of playfulness and laughter. She loved lots of chocolate, red geraniums, hats, and a good margarita or glass of port. She remained young at heart and was a reservoir of strength, wisdom, joy, love and good humor for all.
Brenda will also be remembered for her service to others. She served as President of Casper Service League, President of Casper Deanery and the Wyoming Council of Catholic Women, Vice President of the National Council of Catholic Women, President of Casper Church Women United, and a founding member of Meals on Wheels. She volunteered at hospice, Casper nursing homes and Wyoming Medical Center.
During her last ten years as a Primrose resident, she formed strong bonds with the staff. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jan van Tyen Wilking; sister, Betty Dickie; and brother, Daniel Reynolds. She is survived by her children, Jan (Teri) Wilking, Richard (Helen) Wilking, Rosemary (Mike) Samuelson, and Debi (Steve) Roberts; sisters, Martha Fogh, Deirdre McVey, and Barbara Reynolds; nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
To share your memories of Brenda or leave a special condolence message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.