Wanda Olexa

Wanda Marie Olexa, 93, of Morgantown, passed away February 28, 2019, at Mapleshire Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Greer, WV on March 27th, 1925, the daughter of the late Frank Latusek, founder of the Silica Sand Company and the late Mary Sophia Szajnowski Latusek of Poraz, Poland. Survivors include three children, Dr. Michael T. Olexa of Gainesville, FL, Debra Olexa of Morgantown, and Sandra Olexa-Smith of Fredericksburg, VA; grandchildren Steven Olexa of Columbia SC; Phillip Olexa of Charlotte, NC; Dr. Hope Olexa of Austin, TX; great-grandson Ashton Olexa, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Michael Olexa and son Dr. David F. Olexa; two brothers John and Ted Latusek; sisters Helen Rutkowski and Jennie Maczko. During World War II, Wanda worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” in the construction of B-29 bombers. Following the war, she worked at Sterling Faucet Company. She will be remembered by her family as a dedicated and loving wife, mother, and grandmother. The family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to the doctors and staff of Mapleshire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the love and care given to Wanda during her stay. Family and friends will be received at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St. Morgantown, WV on Thursday, March 7th from 5-8PM. The Parastas service will be held at 7:30 PM to conclude the evening visitation. The Celebration of the Divine Liturgy will be held at 11 am on Friday, March 8th at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 2115 Listravia Ave. in Sabraton with Rev. Father Jerome Botsko as Celebrant. She will be laid to rest with her husband in East Oak Grove Cemetery, Morgantown. Floral remembrance will be accepted at the funeral home. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Ladies Guild of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 2115 Listravia Ave, Morgantown, WV. Send condolences online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com