Deardi Ann Wabaunsee

October 14, 1946 - February 2, 2025
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Marana Mortuary & Cemetery
Paige
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Obituary

Deardi Ann Niver Wabaunsee
“Devoted Mother, Nana, and Great-Nana”

Deardi Wabaunsee, 78, passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Tucson Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.

Deardi was born on October 14, 1946, in Chanute, Kansas, to Glen and Babe Niver. She had a deep love for everything Kansas, especially its state flower, the wild sunflower. She often reminisced about her childhood in Chanute, where she spent time with her two brothers, Russ and Dennis, and rode her bike to the swimming pool. Some of her fondest memories included taking trips on the train to Kansas City with her mother to go shopping for clothes.

In 1970, Deardi graduated from Labette Community College with a degree in nursing, becoming a Registered Nurse. Though she worked in various nursing roles throughout her life, she cherished the time she spent in the operating room at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which she often described as her favorite job experience. It was during nursing school that she met the love of her life, Gary Wabaunsee.

Deardi and Gary shared over 54 beautiful years of marriage, traveling across the United States together. They also worked side by side in their respective careers—Deardi as a nurse and Gary as a hospital administrator.

Family was at the heart of Deardi’s life. She and Gary had two wonderful children, Audra and Joe, who were her greatest joys. She remained deeply involved in their lives and was a devoted and loving mother. This same love extended to her five grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, whom she cherished dearly.

Deardi was known for her adventurous spirit, loving nature, and quick wit. She took a genuine interest in her family’s hobbies, always eager to learn everything she could so she could talk to them about their passions. Whether it was sports, cooking, horses, or any other interest, she made it a point to understand and engage, making every conversation meaningful.

She was also an incredible cook, famous for her homemade sourdough bread. Her passion for cooking even took her to Italy, where she attended cooking classes with her daughter, Audra. She loved traveling, especially to San Diego, where she enjoyed spending time with her son, Joe, and his family. A dedicated and supportive Nana, she never missed a basketball game, cheering on her grandson from elementary school through college.

Deardi is survived by her beloved husband, Gary; her daughter, Audra, and her husband, Bret; her son, Joe, and his wife, Jennifer; her five grandchildren—Jarek, Logan, Thomas, Josh, and Ty; her great-grandchild, Jane; and her brothers, Russ (Linda) and Dennis (Betty).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Babe; her nephew, David; and her dear sisters-in-law, Mary and Sandy.

A devoted follower of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Deardi prayed and read the Bible daily with her husband. Her faith was unwavering, and she is now at peace and pain-free with Christ.

Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Marana Mortuary and Cemetery Chapel in Marana, Arizona.

 

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Service Schedule

Service Information

Date: Friday, March 7, 2025

Time: 10:00 am

Marana Mortuary Cemetery

Address:

12146 W. Barnett Rd
Marana, Arizona 85653

 

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Timeline for Deardi Ann Wabaunsee

Born: October 14, 1946
Died: February 2, 2025

Condolences for Deardi Ann Wabaunsee

Marana Mortuary & Cemetery

Our sincere condolences.

The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.

 

Paige posted on 2/12/25

I've not met Audras momma but I know she is resting in the sweetest of peace❤️

 

Tara Greene posted on 2/12/25

Dear Audra and family. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful mother. I know how much she meant to you even though I never was able to make her acquaintance. But this devotion was evident during my time working with you at the FDA as you frequently talked lovingly about your family and especially your parents. Please know of my Prayers for her and continued prayers for you, your father, your brother and children. May God’s peace light, and comfort be with you in these days.

 

Michael Dempsey posted on 2/12/25

My sincere condolences to the family of Mrs Wabaunsee. May you find strength within each other, through God, during this most difficult time.

 

April Hill posted on 2/12/25

Deardi is greatly loved and missed. Thinking of you all. With love, April

 

Stephen posted on 2/12/25

What a beautiful story and life my Aunt has had. She is very cherished and will deeply missed.

 

Becky Raines posted on 2/10/25

Gary and family- My heart breaks for you. I will miss Deardi so much. We had a blast working together at DOC - wonderful memories. Now I’ve lost my FB friend. She loved her family ever so much. Hugs, love and prayers to all of you. Becky Raines

 

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