Winifred Wabaunsee 1951-2025

Winifred “Goffy” Wabaunsee, 74, Mayetta, died Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

She was born Jan. 25, 1951, in Holton, the daughter of Llewellyn “Lou” and Freda J. Nozhackum Wabaunsee. She graduated from Marty Indian School in Marty, S.D.

Ms. Wabaunsee served in the U.S. Army.

She was a member of the Drum Religion, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and former member of We-Ta-Se Post 410.

Survivors include her son, Charles Nez, of the home; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lou and Freda Wabaunsee; five sisters, Marsha Ferrari, Louella “Henry” Wabaunsee, Mary “Monnie” Wabaunsee, Frances Wabaunsee and Lois “Louie” R. Dominguez; and three brothers, Fred Lew Wabaunsee, Richard Wabaunsee and Ralph Wabnum.

Ms. Wabaunsee will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Wake and supper will be held Saturday evening at Nozhachum Hall. Private graveside services will be held at Shipshee Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.