Wanda Otte

Our loving mother, sister and aunt Wanda Otte passed away June 16, 2007, at the Eastern Plumas Health Care Facility in Loyalton, California. She was 88 years old.
She was born Wanda Spackman in 1919 in Richmond, Utah. Her mother, Anna Maria Andersson, was born in Helsingborg, Sweden and came to Utah when she was twelve years old. Her father, Cyrus Spackman, was born in Richmond, son of English immigrants. As one of the oldest of 8 brothers and sisters, Wanda entered the work force at an early age, as did many of her generation. And as so many others, she and husband Gordon (a native Nebraskan) sought their fortune in post-war California. Living first in Salinas, then Fresno, then Concord, and finally settling in Hayward. They lived in their home at 910 Hohener Avenue for over 30 years, This was where they raised their children, and many longlasting friendships were established there, especially with The Hernandez family and the Lyles.
Wanda a full-time homemaker, and very house-proud. For most of the years in Hayward she had four growing children to care for and later, an elderly mother-in-law. When Grandma Otte moved to a nearby rest home, the Aletha Lodge in Hayward, Wanda started working there. She blossomed in the role of caregiver, and loved taking care of people, who also loved being in her care. Wanda was truly interested in hearing their stories of hardship and joy, and she really felt that she was on the receiving end. This was an especially rewarding time in her life, providing her with many cherished memories and lots of good tales to tell.
When Gordon retired in 1988 they sold their home in California and moved back to the town she always referred to as home, the place where they had first met: Richmond. There they found their dream house. It had been the home of Wanda's favorite aunt, Aunt Marth, and her husband, Uncle Grove, and it held many happy childhood memories for Wanda. It was also perfectly located: on Main Street. Wanda and Gordon spent many hours relaxing on the porch, where they often enjoyed he company of the town's sweet and well behaved kids, who often stopped by to say hi to "the two old fogies" (Wanda's own words). Their beloved Golden Retriever companion Jessie was well known in downtown Richmond, often seen cruising around carrying her own leash in her mouth. Being close to sister Betty was really important, and nieces and nephews were always within reach. They also considered themselves extremely lucky to have such good neighbors as Robin and Bill next door, and Harold and Joyce across the street.
As things turned out, there would be a new move to California in 1999, to the Sierra Valley, to be closer to children Cindy and Terry.
Wanda was a feisty character, full of fun, and a popular aunt both on the "Spackman" side, with cousins spread out through the west, and the "Otte" side on the east coast. She loved visiting and receiving visits from the Nebraskan relatives.
When Gordon joined the Chevy Club (Northern California chapter) in the early 1980's, Wanda just went along for the ride to begin with, but ended up in the driver's seat, socially speaking. This was a great time for both of them, and close friendships grew and were nurtured.
Although she spent most of her life in California, she always referred to Richmond as home. She was born there, she met her husband there, and she will be buried there, beside Gordon, in the peaceful cemetery overlooking beautiful Cache Valley.
She is survived by her sister, Betty Hendricks (Richmond), her son from her first marriage, Steven Cyrus Morgan (Reno), daughter Martha Otte (Tromso, Norway), son Terence Gordon Otte (Clayton, California) and daughter Cynthia Korkeila (Sierraville, California).
Funeral services will be held a 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 23, 2007 at the Allen-Hall Mortuary, 34 East Center St., Logan, Utah. A viewing will be held from 10:00 to 10:45 AM prior to services. Interment will be in the Richmond City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.allenmortuaries.net