Obituary of Wanda C. Burnor

Wanda C. Burnor, 83, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at her home in Hermantown. She was diagnosed with incurable cancer in October 2020.

Born in 1937, Wanda grew up with her parents and four sisters on a farm in Dassel, Minn. She fulfilled her dream of independence by joining the U.S. Air Force at age 18. She served three years as a radar operator and instructor.

She met her husband, Robert Burnor, at Selfridge A.F. Base in Mt. Clement, Mich. They were married in 1961. They lived together and apart throughout Robert’s service until he retired in 1976. Wanda was thrilled to join him in Tirrenia, Italy, where he was stationed for 11 months in 1968. They settled in Duluth in 1970.

Wanda was a beloved member of Augustana Lutheran Church. She sang in the choir, served on the women’s council, worked in the kitchen, and pitched in almost everywhere. She enjoyed golfing, bowling, gardening, watching the Twins, and listening to the birds outside. She also loved cooking and eating delicious food! In 1983, she started working at Wood Magic in Hermantown until her health made her “retire” this April. She loved helping people pick out gifts and decor for their homes. Wanda always greeted you with a big smile and was quick to laugh.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her sisters, Clarice and Jean; and her parents, Clarence and Esther.

Survivors include daughters Terri (Brian Swedeen) Burnor and Tina Burnor Valdez; grandchildren BreAnna and Anthony; great-grandchildren Brea and Peyton; and sisters Lenore Owen and Grace Indihar.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Essentia Hospice, especially Brandy and Meredyth; Pastor Brad Putnam; and mom’s dearest friends, Margaret, Tamilee and Lynn, for their kindness and support.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Augustana Lutheran Church, 3251 Midway Rd., Duluth, on Monday, June 21. Visitation at 1 pm, funeral service at 2 pm followed by a reception. Wanda will be laid to rest at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.