Wendalea Goodhand
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wendalea Goodhand, aged 69 years of Moose Jaw, SK on Thursday, March 18th, 2021. Wendy was born to George and Loraine Arnold in Blairmore, AB on January 19th, 1952. She was predeceased by her father, George. Wendy is survived by her mother, Loraine; 5 siblings; husband, Tom; children: Dean (Annette), Dave (Kelly) and Erin (Dwain); Wendell (Tracy); grandchildren: Desarae, Dylan, Danielle, Kaylee, Clara, Henry, Will, Joie, Dylan, Ryan, Tyler, and Cody; and a handful of great-grandchildren.
Wendy was raised with strong Christian faith. Her devotion to God provided her strength in her daily life. Passion for music was an inherent gift that Wendy possessed. From her early years, Wendy was shaped by the love of music shared within her family. She began piano lessons at age 6 and started on alto sax at age 12. On the Stalwart farm, her sisters reminisce that they would hear Dad ask Wendy to play Alleycat every evening. Sometimes two to three times a night! As an adult, she was active as a piano teacher, accompanist, general music instructor, band teacher, choral director, chorister and Saskatchewan Choral Federation (SCF) Board Member which includes 12 years on the board (serving two terms as president). Her desire to nurture musical growth in her students has guided many developing musicians. In 1991 she completed her education degree and began teaching at Esterhazy High School, where she raised many successful musical groups. In 1998 she joined her husband Tom in Moose Jaw where she substitute taught in both public and Catholic school sectors while obtaining her second degree in Special Education. She eventually accepted a permanent position with Cornerstone Christian School where she taught band, choir, and special education until she retired in 2015.
Some highlights of her life include raising their three children with her husband of 48 ½ years, as a singer with the Esterhazy Treblemakers, director of the Timothy Eaton Moose Jaw Mix Senior Choir, workshop conductor for Muenster Choir camps, singer with the Swing’ n Soul Singers (with her daughter), directing musicals in Esterhazy and Moose Jaw, as well teaching 35 piano students per year in Esterhazy prior to obtaining her primary education and special education degrees.
Her hobbies included time with family and friends, camping, fishing, and bible-study.
Wendy was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2016 which encompassed a journey like no other. She and Tom courageously worked through the journey together. Their love for each other, and the strength of their faith carried them through, noting that Mom was always able to embrace special moments of time with those around her. As she was about to begin her final journey, Tom whispered in her ear “Let me know when you get there so I won’t worry anymore.” The angels held out their hands and she let go of ours. The Lord’s arms embraced her soul and welcomed her into his kingdom.
“Farewell Mom, farewell my love… farewell.”
A Private Family Service will be held to honour Wendy. Friends and Family are invited to view the service virtually on Friday, March 26th, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. by going to www.moosejawfuneralhome.com/webcast/. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Tom, so sorry to hear of Wendy’s passing. Growing up together with your family in Esterhazy created so many memories that will always be in the hearts and minds of the Hrycay family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Dean, David, Erin and the rest of the families. From Kevin Hrycay and the rest of the Hrycay family.
We have lost a dear sister. She will be forever remembered for her courage, convictions and love of life.
Rest In Peace Wendy.
Our condolences to Tom and all the family. We were lucky to know her for many years.
I am sorry to hear of Mrs. Goodhand’s passing. She was a great teacher, and an all around great person. I am thankful that she got to share her love of music in Esterhazy, so our entire family could learn a little (or a lot) from her. Sending prayers and hugs to Mr. Goodhand, Erin, Dean, Dave, Wendell and all your families.
So very sorry to hear of Wendy’s passing. Heaven has welcomed their choir leader with open arms. Rest easy Wendy.
I’m happy your suffering is over! I will hold our memories in my heart forever. You unknowingly taught me much about life and what is important ant. I will miss you immensely . I trust you and dad will meet.
I am very saddened to hear of Mrs. Goodhand’s passing. She was a great teacher. I still only know how to spell ‘rhythm’ because of her little spelling chant she taught us! I quietly chant it when I need to type or write it. Please accept my condolences. Rest In Peace Mrs. Goddhand. I’ll never forget your rhythm.
So sorry to hear of the loss. Thoughts are with the whole family.
Heartfelt condolences to each of you. I’ll always remember Wendy’s cheerful manner, her infectious laugh and sense of fun. Elsbeth & Greg
What a beautiful tribute to Wendy. I’m so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God Bless.
My condolences Erin and family. I learned so much from your Mom in choir and so many of my memories from living back home include choir, band and Church all of which include you and your Mom. I sang a little bumblebee exercise in honour of your Mom.❤️
From Madge Lake to Yorktown to Esterhazy to Moose Jaw, Wendy always made my visits full of fun and music. I am missing her with all my heart.
My deepest sympathy to you Tom and your family- the generosity that Wendy
gave of her time and talent along with a smile will be remember by many. May she RIP.
Our most sincere condolences to Tom, Dean, Dave, Erin and Wendell and families. We were fortunate enough to be close friends with Wendy for over forty years and will always remember her sense of humor and positive outlook. We have so many precious memories to hold dear. Wendy was a kind and thoughtful person who enjoyed the simple things in life and truly loved her music and helping her students. She was always gracious, inclusive and non judgmental. Thank you for being part of our lives. Rest in peace dear Wendy. Gail & Archie Marcynuk
My sincere condolences to you and your family Tom
Tom , Sharon and I are very sorry to hear of the passing of your wife Wendy.
I had the pleasure of meeting her only a couple of times ,but could sense the warmth and kind gentleness of her character. My thoughts are of you and your family during your great loss with Wendy’s passing.
I am so deeply sorry to hear of Wend’y passing. I absolutely loved her as a teacher! We met up a few times after I graduated and it was always great to see her and have a little visit. She will be missed. Condolences to Wendy’s family.
Our sincere condolences to your family . We had many connections with you in Esterhazy , and remember Wendy always had a smile . She will be missed in so many ways .
Our deepest sympathy.
All the great times we had together will never be forgotten. Tom, Dean, David, & Erin and Families, Cherish the memories. Rest In Peace Wendy, your work is done.
Love Gord & Wreatha
We extend our sincerest condolences to Tom and family during this difficult time. We had many fond memories working with Wendy in Esterhazy.
Oh I am so very sad to hear of my friend Wendy’s passing! Remembering all our younger days with our little kids and and activities in ESTERHAZY!!
May she Rest In Peace
OH CAN YOU IMAGINE WHAT SHE IS SEEING NOW❤️
Tom and family,
My deepest condolences to you all in the loss of your beautiful Wendy. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Wendy’s commitment to family, faith and music has been an inspiration to all who knew her. It was a privilege to work with her in the music community and perform with her in The Treblemakers. She was a ‘sing’-ular sensation.
My condolences to you and your family Tom
Our heartfelt sympathy Tom and families, what great memories of such an accomplished women, our thoughts and prayers with you always!!
I was saddened to hear of Wendy’s passing. My sincere condolences Tom, to you and your family
We were so sorry Tom and family to hear of Wendy’s passing. Our thoughts are with you.
Dear Tom and Family,
Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs. I am so sorry for your loss.
Tom & Family
We are very saddened to learn of the passing of your wonderful wife and mother. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Rest In Peace
Ryan Wagner and Family
Tom and family – Thoughts and prayers go out to you on your loss of wife, mother and grandmother. Treasure the memories.
Our deepest condolences to Tom and the entire Goodhand/Arnold family. Wendy was a wonderful colleague and friend, as well as an amazing advocate for music education in Saskatchewan and beyond. She will be greatly missed by many.
Tom, my deepest condolences to you and your family. Wendy was such a wonderful person. May God be with you during this difficult time.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this time. Sending you Tom & family our love & sympathies
Tom and family,my condolences to all of you on the passing of Wendy May she rest in eae
Mrs. Goodhand was very loved at Cornerstone. She was so kind and lovely and always smiling. Rosalie appreciated her very much and will never forget that it was Mrs. Goodhand that taught her clarinet and to have a grateful attitude in life and to be thoughtful of others always. So so sorry to the family and staff and students past and present of Cornerstone Christian School. Mrs. Goodhand was a cornerstone to love and grace in the school and in her life. We love you and miss you, Miss Goodhand. xo Rosalie, Alain and Fiona xo
Wendy was a warm and caring person. She will be missed by all who knew her. She is resting in the arms of Jesus now. My boys had her for music when they went to Cornerstone School. Thoughts and prayer go out to the family.
When Wendy joined the choir at St. Andrew’s, her beautiful voice, her warm smile and that twinkle in her eye added joy to our group. She eventually became our choir director for several years before moving to Moose Jaw. She called herself the choir buzzard, but to us she was a choir magician, coaxing wonderful music out of a group of amateurs.
Heaven has gained a choir angel who will be looking out for all of us.
Our sincerest condolences to you Tom, and family, Lorraine and families at this sad time. May she rest peacefully surrounded by love. She will be missed by many. With love Auntie Alice and families.
Rest in peace, gentle lady. You will be missed. My prayers are with the family.
Tom and Family: This world has lost a beautiful person with the loss of Wendy but heaven has gained a most precious angel. My heart aches for the grief you’ re feeling. Lean on each other for comfort and peace. Stay strong and safe.
Dearest Tom and Family
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this difficult time.
We have fond memories of Wendy at Waskesiu.
Dear Tom, Dean, David , Erin and all your families,
Sending our deepest sympathy on your great loss.
Kubik Drive in Esterhazy was never the same after you moved away.
Wendy was always so bubbly and kind and she contributed so much of her musical talents to our school, and town, during your time here in Esterhazy.
Our kids had lots of fun times with Dean, Dave and Erin .. sending special hugs to you all.
Tom and family. I’m so sorry to hear of Wendy’s passing. Please know that you are all in my prayers as you grieve. Wendy was a good student, a great teacher and a wonderful friend. We shared many wonderful times together and a bond that only birth moms of adopted children can share. Rest In Peace my dear friend.
Tom and family. I was surprised and saddened to hear of Wendy’s passing. Please know that your are in my prayers as you grieve. Wendy was a talented student, an excellent teacher and a special friend. We shared many good times and a special bond that only birth mothers of adopted children can have. Rest In Peace dear friend.
Wendy was a special cousin whom we shall miss dearly. Love and hugs to all of you at this difficult time.
Love from Myrlene and Joe
My most sincere condolences to Tom, his family and the Arnold family. The arrival of the Arnold family in Yorkton was was such a positive thing. Wendy and Bryce just fitted in so well with our age group. Lots of fond memories from high school. Wendy and I lived together in first year at U of R. Wendy introduced me to fried green tomatoes, and why I remember that, who knows. Wendy was always full of life and laughter. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care!
I was so saddened to hear of Wendy’s passing! Sending heartfelt sympathy to you and all of your children’s families. She was a wonderful person and will be missed by all who knew her.
I have many memories of our younger days and have thought of the two of you often these past months! Hold your memories close, knowing she is at peace!
Please pass on my condolences to the Arnold family too.
Our deepest condolences to Wendy’s family and to the Arnold family. Wendy’s accomplishments and contributions speak for themselves. What a life well lived. I should have known as a school buddy in Stalwart that Wendy would grow up to be a positive influence to so many. She had such a sense of humour and energy, her giggle brought fun to any gathering. Rest In Peace Wendy.
Dear Tom,
Sincere condolences to you and your family with Wendy’s passing. May memories of good times keep her near in your heart
Sincerely, Ivar & Carol
Dear Tom & family
Our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your Wife Wendy.
May the comfort of friends and family help you through this difficult time.
Don & Lorinda Lemond
Wendy was an amazing musician, amazing teacher and loyal friend. I remember that Wendy told the middle school kiddos who asked why her hair was a darker after a trip to the hairdresser that every time she got her hair cut it just got darker. I was so touched that Tom and Wendy stopped in to visit in Flagstaff. She even came and rehearsed with my church choir.
Hugs to Tom, David, Dean, Erin and your spouses and kids.
It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Wendy. She was the best piano accompanist one could ever have and I have fond memories of her seated on the piano bench with little Erin seated on the floor nearby. She willingly gave of her time to accompany our classrooms at Gillen School with a great deal of patience and proficiency, and always that big, beautiful smile of encouragement. Later in her career, wonder of wonders, she ended up teaching our daughter Katreena at Esterhazy High in music programs for which we are grateful.
Sincere condolences to Wendy’s family from Judy and Wayne Wilson, Sooke, BC.
Tom and family,
I just finally learned ….My deepest condolences. Wendy and I were in touch on Facebook but we lost touch about a year ago. She was a wonderful friend. She will be missed by many!!
Jacqui Koskie