Vicky Wahl

Vicky Lucille Wahl, 67, of Flush, Kansas earned her wings on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the home of her son.

Born on Valentine’s Day, 1956, Vicky is the daughter of Chester H. and Opal L. (Reves) Smith of Blaine Kansas.  

Entering the world on “the day of love” colored a life spent caring for others. After growing up on the family farm, Vicky graduated from Westmoreland High School, and attended nursing school in Topeka. She then returned home to begin her career caring for others at Dechairo Hospital in Westmoreland. From there she transitioned to pediatric nursing with Pediatric Associates in Manhattan. Vicky was gifted with children. It was not possible for her to go anywhere in Manhattan without being recognized as “Miss Vicky” from the doctor’s office. Her patients loved her, and she loved them. Despite being retired for years, Vicky never stopped being a nurse. It was more than a vocation; it was her identity. Whenever someone asked what she did, she never answered “I was a nurse.”  Rather, she confidently stated, “I AM a nurse.”

Miss Vicky was the life of the party.  Her warmth and giving nature were well known to those who knew her. No one was allowed to leave her home without some kind of treat, be it kettle corn, candy from the candy bowl, or some other confectionery delight. She enjoyed keeping her home decorated for the seasons and kept the “Christmas Room” perennially decorated for the season of giving.  

The only thing that outpaced her love of others, was the love Vicky carried for her family and friends.  When needed, Vicky retired from nursing to spend time with and help her mother, Opal. She was a constant source of love and support for her son. She loved sports, but mostly when that meant quite vocally cheering for her son or granddaughter Brooklyn. Brooklyn is perhaps the person who most emulates Miss Vicky. The two enjoyed sharing their joy for decorating, planning parties, and make believe.  Their boundless imaginations only seemed to feed off one another. Grandma Vicky did everything with love and made everything more fun. Her whimsical spirit will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her son, Michael Heptig (Sara); granddaughter, Brooklyn Heptig; sister in law, Shelley “Smith” Wichman; nephews, Scott Smith (Courtney) and Shawn Smith (Kindra); and two nieces, Carrie Oswalt (Dustin) and Lesley White (Adam).  Vicky was preceded in death by her parents; son in infancy, Matthew Heptig; and her brother, Wes Smith.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.

Per Miss Vicky’s suggestion, a “tropical” themed celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at TRU Community Church near St. George. If desired, attendees are welcome to dress for the island life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Rock Creek Endowment and may be sent in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home PO Box 48, Wamego, Kansas, 66547.