Wendy was an extraordinary woman—highly intelligent, kind, and deeply caring. Her brilliance shone brightly across many fields of interest. Whether delving into plants, animals, astronomy, or politics, Wendy approached each subject with a fervent curiosity, becoming profoundly knowledgeable in each area she explored. She was well educated and tutored students in the sciences. She was respected and loved by those who knew her.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wendy was relentless in her pursuit of understanding, engaging with leading doctors, virologists, and politicians, always seeking to broaden her perspective and exchange ideas. Her compassion extended to every living being; she had a special bond with animals, whether they were domestic pets or wild creatures. We had numerous rescues—fish, birds, squirrels, ferrets, and cats—and they all felt her love and care.
Wendy’s passions included photography, gardening, horses, and, notably, astronomy. Her love for space and everything related to Star Trek was boundless. She followed every space launch and mission with enthusiasm, from the Moon landings to the latest SpaceX endeavors. She would often rise in the middle of the night to ensure she didn't miss a moment.
It feels so fitting to send Wendy into space, where she always dreamed of venturing. When I gaze up at the night sky and see a twinkling star, I’ll know it is my beloved wife, finally following her dream. I am incredibly proud to honor her final wish in this way.
**A Love Unexpected**
Wendy and I were introduced by mutual acquaintances who were enthusiastic about playing matchmaker. At that time, neither of us was actively seeking a romantic relationship, and both of us approached the situation with reservations. We were assured that the other person was not looking for romance either, but was simply a safe and respectable choice for meeting someone new.
Our first meeting took place at a dinner at Wendy’s mother’s home, arranged by her sister, one of the matchmakers. I had seen a picture of Wendy beforehand and knew what she looked like. I attended out of curiosity more than anything else, and I suspect Wendy did the same. Our initial interaction was limited to a nod when introduced, and that was about it.
Our connection deepened through a shared role in caring for our nephew, Jared. We took turns babysitting him, and occasionally, our work commitments would overlap, leading us to meet for the transfer of Jared from one of us to the other. After several of these meetings, we decided to start babysitting together, taking Jared out to a restaurant where we all had a wonderful time. Jared enjoyed these outings so much that they soon became a regular occurrence. As we spent more time together, a magnetic pull began to form between us. We went for walks, both with and without Jared, and began to enjoy each other’s company.
Eventually, I invited Wendy to dinner at a restaurant without Jared. She accepted, marking the beginning of something deeper. One Sunday, when flight cancellations disrupted my teaching schedule for aspiring pilots, I spontaneously invited Wendy for a sightseeing flight. She agreed and met me at the airport. After the flight, we went out for dinner, and I escorted her back to her mother’s apartment. By then, a mutual attraction was growing, and we both felt the magnetic pull intensifying.
Wendy showed me her garden, and I began visiting her more frequently. What started as platonic hugs at goodnight grew into kisses, and our feelings for each other deepened. Despite our initial resistance to romantic involvement, it became clear that we were falling in love. We began dating, and even when we briefly considered taking a break, neither of us could bear to do it. Our first goodnight kiss was when Wendy caught me by surprise and kissed me. When I left the apartment to go home, I was disoriented and exited via the entrance.
This marked the end of my bachelorhood and her spinsterhood. When I was transferred to another city for work, Wendy joined me in house hunting. She moved into a basement apartment with me, and eventually, we found a home that we both loved—a true love nest for the next 42 years.
Our friends and family often remarked on how well we matched as a couple. Our magnetic bond remained strong, and we continued to nurture our love throughout the years. We supported each other through sickness and health, allowing each other to pursue individual passions while always being there for one another. If one of us was ill, the other was there, offering care and comfort. We delighted in spontaneously giving each other gifts, often flowers for no special occasion other than to say "I love you." When asked by florists about the occasion, I would reply, “I love her; that’s reason enough.” Wendy did the same. One of the most endearing gestures by Wendy was that every time I went out in our vehicle she would go to a window and wave at me, Even if I was going to the corner store. She did this from the first day we met. I miss that.
Wendy was incredibly intelligent and became highly knowledgeable in everything she undertook. Her achievements always made me proud. We were both faithful and loving, with a deep trust in each other and a shared wicked sense of humor. Most photographs I have of Wendy capture her with a huge smile or laughing. She was a very happy person. Our son found it amusing how we would turn disagreements into jokes. Despite life’s ups and downs, we faced them together with grace and affection.
When Wendy’s death became imminent, we spoke of her soaring with the eagles, reminiscent of Jonathan Livingston Seagull striving for a higher existence.
I love and miss her dearly. Though the light of my life has gone, I find comfort in the stars, where her shining light remains.
I love you, Wendy. Until we meet again.
Glenn
