Wanda Jean Radke, age 54, of Kasson, passed away peacefully with family by her side on May 18, 2023 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Rochester Minnesota.
Wanda was born on February 22, 1969, in Rochester MN, to Ronald and Liela Radke. She grew up in Byron, MN. She was married to Rich Bennett for 12 years before they divorced. They had three children.
Wanda lived life to the fullest, and on her own terms. She was highly independent, incredibly smart and stubborn. She was the life of any party she attended. Her love language was cooking. She loved to create recipes and cook for her family. She was the cook of the family and made elaborate meals for holiday celebrations, which always included the best Bloody Mary Bar. She didn’t like anyone else in her kitchen, so family had strict orders to leave her alone and stay out of her way until the food was ready. She then loved watching her family gather and enjoy what she prepared.
She spent her time gardening, canning, watching NASCAR, Friends, and cooking shows. She was a passionate Jimmy Johnson fan, and on race days would chant, “Race Day, Race Day, 48, 48”.
Her biggest joy in life was her children and grandchildren. Her children could call her with any question and she would always have the answers. She always came up with fun activities to do with her grandchildren when they would visit, even during times when she was very ill. The latest project was having her Grandkids help her grow vegetables from seeds to plant in a garden at her Son’s home. She also had special and unique connections with each one of her Nephews and her Niece.
She often thought of others before herself which made it difficult for her to accept help from the many people who offered to help her over the last few years of her illness. She was very easy to love, but so hard to help. She didn’t want to be a burden to anyone.
She lived with her Sister, Jody for a year and a half and the memories they made could produce a Comedy and sometimes Drama TV Series.
She is survived by her Sons Richard Bennett (Alex) and Zach Bennett (Denielle), Daughter Ashley Garris (Anthony), Sisters Jody Radke (Dave King), Chrissy Harvey (Brian), Grandchildren Arianna, Lincoln, Anora, Landon, Russell and Otto (due June 2nd). She had close relationships with her Nephews, Ronald Radke (Anica), Brandon Harvey, Niece Brenna Anderson (Cole), Great Nephew Renly and Great Nieces Hadi, Leila, and Kylie. In addition, she had two great friends that added so much to her life, Kathy Meyer and Jackie Hendrix.
She was proceeded in death by her parents Ronald and Leila Radke, Maternal Grandparents (Grandmother Letha), Paternal Grandparents, Cousin and “Little Buddy” Michael Hendrix, her dog Ranger, and many Aunts and Uncles.
The Celebration of Life will be on Friday, May 26th from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at the Kasson American Legion.
Please come and join us for food, drinks and lots of laughs as we remember all of the good times we had with her.
Memories and condolences of Wanda may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
Her mom, dad, and siblings were our neighbors for many years. Enjoyed their friendship and the love for softball, horseshoe, and just having fun. She was a great neighbor and friends to my children for many years. So many years ago. Time seems to fly by us all. May she rest in peace with her mom and dad, and many others. God Bless.
Well written, Wanda was always living at 110%. We had a lot of good times together riding motorcycle & camping together. Memories that will never be forgotten. Peace for your soul.
She was one awesome woman and I’m so glad to have known her. Rest in peace my friend.
She had a major impact in my life. She was a blessing to know. Hardest working lady, and I learned so much from her. I will miss her and I’m sad she won’t be there to see us open our food business. Loved her food and would have defiantly shared that space with her.
I worked with Wanda in PM&R. There was no one in my many years of working that worked harder than Wanda. She was beyond dedicated to those she worked for and with.
She’d bust her butt all day only to go home to roof the house and then cook a huge meal.
She was amazing. Loved her and loved working with her. She will be truly missed by so many people. RIP rockstar!
Growing up Wanda was a neighbor, babysitter, and friend of ours, she was a hoot to be around and leaves us with memories of her infectious laugh, spice for life, and reminder to always love hard.
Love and light to the entire family and friends she touched.
The Huntoon’s
Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends. Wanda sounds like an incredible woman who loved her family and understood the importance of a good meal and a good Bloody Mary. May she rest in Peace.