Wanda Lee Elifritz

Wanda Lee Clark Elifritz went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 9, 2023, after a brief bout with cancer. At 97 years old she lived her life with joy, gratitude, and a fun-loving spirit.

Wanda was born on January 22, 1926, and adopted by her loving parents James Albert and Hattie Mae Clark of Kansas City, MO. She lived in Kansas City until her marriage to Merle Elifritz after he returned from WWII. They made their way to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1950. During their years in Albuquerque, they raised their six children: James, Mary, Patricia, Carol, Susan, and Andrew. The family spent many memorable hours roaming the mountains of New Mexico and enjoying the great outdoors.

After Merle retired from Sandia Laboratories, Merle and Wanda lived in Kino Bay, Mexico and later moved to Rockport, Texas in 1993. From their home base of Rockport, they toured the world together visiting five continents and collecting innumerable memories. Their love for adventure and seeing new things took them all over the globe, the highlight of their golden years.

Wanda’s legacy includes James Elifritz of Ogden UT, Mary and Randall Sheriff of Albuquerque, NM, Patty Bertrand of Abilene, TX, Carol and Brent Casey of Abilene, TX, Sue and Jeff Hattey of Columbus, OH, and Andy and Mary Elifritz of Harker Heights, TX along with 25 Grandchildren, 27 Great Grandchildren, and countless friends around the world.

Wanda is preceded in death by Merle, her parents, and son-in-law Mark Bertrand.

A family memorial service will be held at a gathering later this year. Condolences may be sent to The Hamil Family Funeral Home in Abilene, Texas. Contributions to honor her life can be given to Hillcrest Baptist Church in Louisville, KY or Restoration Church in Clearwater, FL where her grandchildren Pastor.