In the quiet town of Brush Valley Township, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, lived a woman whose presence brought warmth and light to all who knew her. Wilda Jean Fyock, affectionately known as “Wilda Tilda” to her friends and family, departed this world on June 8, 2024, at Spero Heritage Homes in Watertown, WI, surrounded by beloved family members.
Born at home on December 1, 1934, to Nelson T. and Mary Cramer Fyock, Wilda was a daughter of the soil, rooted in the values of faith, family, and community. She learned early on the importance of her need for salvation, hard work, kindness, and generosity of spirit. These qualities would become the hallmarks of her character, guiding her throughout her life.
Upon high school graduation, Wilda embarked on a journey of adventure when she married Richard Sherwood Wetzel August 8, 1953. Throughout her 70-year marriage to Richard, Wilda exemplified the essence of partnership and support. From their humble beginnings in Indiana, PA, to their adventures across the United States, including, Ohio, Michigan, Texas, South Dakota then Hudson, Wisconsin for 25 years, and then back to their ‘roots’ in Indiana, Pennsylvania for another 30 years, Wilda stood by Richard’s side, embracing each new chapter with grace and resilience. Wilda’s life was a tapestry of kindness and generosity. After being an administrative assistant at Penn State University for six and a half years, she eventually fulfilled her lifelong desire of becoming a devoted homemaker and mother.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Nelson & Mary Fyock and her beloved sister, Charlotte Fyock Kunkle. Wilda is survived by her much-loved brothers Collins, Jim, Robert and her siblings’ families. Wilda and Richard had two children: Robert (Sheril) Wetzel of Watertown, WI and Jeanne (Markus) Schafer of Waco, TX; six grandchildren: Meagan (Dan) Loggans of Normal, IL, Jenn (Joel) Thimsen of Raleigh, NC, Heather (Steve) Lingle of Anderson, IN, Matt (Tiffany) Wetzel of Raleigh, NC, Ferguson Schafer and Webster Schafer both in Waco, TX and 16 great, grandchildren: Micah, Karis, Khloe, Eliana, Adelyn, Haddon, Mercy, Johanna, Grace, Kayla, Samuel, Shephard, Abel, Nate, Saylor, Hope and at least one more on the way.
She touched the lives of many with her compassionate spirit and boundless love. Wilda’s presence was a beacon of hope and comfort in a world often fraught with uncertainty. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and welcome, where laughter echoed, and hearts found solace. A self-taught master of the culinary arts, Wilda’s pies with her signature flaky crust, buttery date rolls at Christmas or simple eggless chocolate cakes for birthday gatherings were legendary. Whether hosting dinner parties into the late evenings, afternoon coffee guests while hanging the laundry or the occasional unexpected overnight guest, Wilda’s hospitality knew no bounds. Her willingness to open her home to all who crossed her path was a testament to her unwavering faith and generosity of spirit.
In addition to her culinary talents, Wilda shared her musical gifts at Bible Baptist Church in Hudson, WI as a church organist for 25 years, enriching the lives of her church family with her willing dedication. Her faithfulness to the Lord and her church family was unwavering, and her legacy of love will continue to inspire all who knew her. Upon Richard’s retirement they moved back to their roots in Indiana, PA for the next 30 years, where she attended Indiana Wesleyan Methodist Church and enjoyed the ladies’ fellowships, tea parties and Bible studies. In the month of their 70th wedding anniversary, Richard and Wilda moved to Watertown, WI due to health concerns.
Wilda’s greatest joy was found in her family. Her children and grandchildren were the lights of her life, and her love for them knew no bounds. Her tender presence, heartfelt prayers, greeting cards on all occasions and unwavering support were the cornerstones of her legacy, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Though Wilda may have left this earth, the memories of those she touched and the lives she enriched will be cherished; and those who know her Savior, Jesus Christ, look forward to a joyful reunion in Heaven. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the profound impact she made on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Wilda’s willing smiles and easy laughter will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.
Friends will be received from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 15th at Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N. 7th Street, Indiana, with the Rev. Benjamin Blowers officiating. Interment will be private in Marion Center Memorial Cemetery.
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