Marcella F. Wunder

Marcella Wunder, aged 90, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, enveloped in the love of her family at her residence in Aldersgate Home Plus.

Born on February 12, 1935, in St. Mary’s, KS, Marcella was the cherished daughter of Orval and Goldie Lister Harden, and she proudly stood as the last of their eight beloved children. Her life was marked by an unwavering devotion to family, a bond that was the cornerstone of her existence. Whether it was her birth family or the nurturing home she created, Marcella's heart overflowed with love, especially as a mother and grandmother. The holidays, particularly Christmas, blossomed as cherished gatherings, where her family gathered around her to celebrate their togetherness.

Marcella's academic journey took her through the Topeka public school system, culminating in her graduation from Topeka High School. Professionally, she embarked on her career at Karlan’s Furniture and Gregg Tire before dedicating more than 25 years to Brewster Place as Office Manager, retiring in 1997. Even in retirement, her zest for engagement was evident as she continued to work at Sam’s Club and serve lunches at Pauline Central Elementary School. Her commitment and dedication were honored with the "Exemplary Older Worker" award from the Kansas Department of Commerce.

On June 9, 1957, Marcella entered into matrimony with Burt Coffman, with whom she welcomed two sons before their divorce. In joy and companionship, she married Robert Wunder on October 10, 1980, a union that flourished for nearly four decades until Bob's passing on February 16, 2020. Together, they shared moments of travel and deep affection, embodying a partnership of care and love in their later years.

Marcella is survived by her two sons, David (Gina) Coffman and Kevin (Linda) Coffman, both of Topeka, KS; two stepdaughters, Annette Hollingdale and Jeanine Ward, also of Topeka; and two stepsons, Daniel (Denise) Wunder of Topeka, and Timothy (Jennifer) Wunder of Mayetta, KS. Additionally, her legacy includes sixteen grandchildren, forty-four great-grandchildren, and ten great-great-grandchildren who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her siblings — Homer Coulter, Bob Harden, Loretta Murray, Ova Harden, Lola Patton, Orval Harden, and Wilbur Harden — as well as her stepson Douglas Wunder — grandson, Matthew Dreher and great-grandson, Carter Coffman.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Tuesday evening, May 13, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Dove Cremations and Funerals - Southwest Chapel, located at 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka. A service honoring her life will be held on Wednesday, May 14, at 10:30 AM at the same location. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Topeka, KS.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 4125 SW Gage Center Dr., Topeka, KS 66604, to honor Marcella’s compassionate spirit.

To share a memory of Marcella or leave a special message for her family, visit the guestbook below.