Wendy Jo Shaffer

Wendy Jo Shields Shaffer (Wigstrom)

May 22nd, 1989 - January 29th, 2025

Wendy Jo Shaffer, 35, raised in Mahtomedi, Minnesota and later residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, tragically passed away on January 29th aboard American Airlines Flight 5342. Wendy radiated kindness and joy- sparkles and smiles seemed to follow her everywhere she went. She was driven, but effortless, ambitious yet full of ease. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled.

Born in Minnesota, to Mike and Mary Wigstrom, Wendy was a shining star from the moment she came into this world. She was every parent's dream: kind, hardworking, endlessly curious, and a friend you wanted your own children to have. Known for her boundless energy and fierce competitiveness, she lived life with an enthusiasm that inspired everyone around her. A three-sport athlete and straight-A student, she was driven by an insatiable curiosity, always eager to expand her knowledge and skills. From fishing and camping in the summer to skating on the lake in the winter, Wendy cherished every moment spent with her family. She was known to call her Mom multiple times every single day- sometimes simply to say I love you. She never let distance prevent her from maintaining those most exceptional relationships in her life. She always had the very best advice for her younger siblings and was so immensely proud of everything they ever did. She was the heart of her family- the kind of sister and daughter who always showed up.

As her friends and family know, Wendy had a remarkable ability to make everything fun- she filled each moment with laughter and smiles. Her positivity was contagious, and she made the world brighter simply by being in it. She effortlessly made meaningful connections with people from every corner of her life.

A 2007 graduate of Mahtomedi High School, Wendy earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2012. She dedicated over 12 years of her career to Cargill, most recently as a Senior Director of Business Process Management Food Manufacturing and Supply Chain, where her intelligence, drive, and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.

Wendy's greatest joy was being a wife and mother. She married Nathan, her soulmate, and together they built a beautiful life full of adventure, mutual support, and deep love. Visiting local breweries and restaurants, getting together with their friends, and traveling were some of their favorite things to do together. Nate embraced every wild, wonderful idea Wendy had, only ever cheering her on. Wendy was immensely proud of their two young sons, Shields (3) and Bennett (1), and she poured her heart and soul into raising them. Wendy created unique and magical experiences for her boys. Always going above and beyond in the ways that only Wendy could.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Nathan; their sons, Shields and Bennett; her parents, Mike and Mary Wigstrom; her sister Emily (Alex); her brother, Michael (Jessa); her brother, Patrick; her mother-in-law, Nell Shaffer-Gollnick (Dennis); her sister-in-law, Erin (Harrison); as well as numerous aunts; uncles; cousins; and countless friends. She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Brad; and her beloved grandparents. Wendy's love for her family and friends was fierce and unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Wendy's spirit will live on through the connections she made, the loving stories and memories shared, and acts of kindness put forth on her behalf.

In honor of Wendy's legacy:

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Mueller Memorial Funeral Home, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, MN 55115, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM at the Church.

A Celebration of Life will follow the funeral from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at JX Venue, 123 2nd St N, Stillwater, MN 55082.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Wendy Jo Shaffer Foundation at WendyJoShafferFoundation.org.