Wanda Lynn Stanis

Wanda Woman's passion was always physical fitness training and weight-lifting. Wanda started her fitness journey at age 13 and continued to train (riding her stationary bike) until the last two weeks of her life. Wanda poured into her passion working at the Nautilus of Scottsdale in Chicago, Pro's Gym at Ford City East, Rivercrest Health Club in Hickory Hills, and many Chicago Health and Racquetball Clubs. Wanda became a personal trainer and the Group Exercise Manager for Bally's Total Fitness. Wanda pioneered PowerFlex classes long before they came to be called PowerFlex. Wanda's exercise classes were often filled with top instructors taking notes for their own classes!

Wanda was also busy in the evenings, inspiring many with exercise classes at local park districts, most notably the Chicago Ridge Park District and Burbank Park District. Her career spanned over 30 years and her fitness journey continued until the last weeks of her life.

Brave and Beautiful Wanda is survived by John, her husband of 42 years, and their children, Mandy and Ryan.

A Memorial Mass for Wanda will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 10am at St. Fabian Church, 7450 W. 83rd St. in Bridgeview, Illinois, 60455.