Sister Wanda Scherer, OSF

Sister Wanda Scherer, 98, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rochester, Minnesota, died at Assisi Heights on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Wanda Rita Scherer was born on January 11, 1928, in Ironton, Ohio, to Fred and Mary (Melcher) Scherer. She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1951, received the name of Sister Viterbo, and made perpetual vows in 1957.

Sister Wanda’s life of ministry was rooted in the Franciscan spirit of service, compassion, and care for others. She began her ministry in 1954 as a teacher at St. Mary’s School in Owatonna, Minnesota, and continued in Catholic education for more than 25 years. From 1954–1980, she served as an educator in Minnesota, Nebraska, and Ohio, including St. Joseph High School in Ironton, Ohio (1969–1970), the community where she was born, and Lourdes High School in Rochester, sharing her love of learning and her faith with generations of young people.

In 1980, Sister Wanda began a new chapter of ministry with the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio, serving in the Marriage Tribunal. From 1980–1987, she served as a Notary; from 1987–1989, as an Auditor, Assessor, and Advocate; and from 1989–2010, as Defender of the Bond. Even after retiring in 2010, she continued to offer her gifts through volunteer service with the Tribunal.

In October 2018, Sister Wanda moved to Assisi Heights in Rochester, returning to the community where her Franciscan journey had begun. There, through her prayer, presence, and quiet service, she continued to live the Franciscan call to love, serve, and be a compassionate presence to others.

Survivors of Sister Wanda include her Franciscan Sisters, with whom she shared life for 75 years; nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Mayme Scherer; brother Wilfred (Bud) Scherer; and sisters Mary Smith, and Eileen Unger.

A Resurrection Liturgy will be held at Assisi Heights at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery. To view the funeral via live stream, CLICK HERE

The family plans to have a Memorial Mass in the Columbus, Ohio area for those friends and relatives who are not able to attend the Minnesota services.

Memorials are suggested to the Sisters of St. Francis, Office of Donor Relations, Assisi Heights, 1001 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901