Wanda L. Gifford, 62, was a lifetime resident of Canajoharie, NY. Wanda was born to Linda Willis Bouck on January 22, 1964, in Gloversville, NY. She died unexpectedly on August 12, 2026, in St. Mary’s Healthcare in Amsterdam, NY. A beloved Mother, Daughter, Sister, and best friend to many, Wanda is predeceased by Wendy Bouck, Ronald Bouck, Ronald Fraker, and Zaccaria Crankshaw. She is survived by her mother, Linda Bouck; two daughters, Kaylene Gifford and Briana Gifford; her sister, Janene Bouck; and four grandchildren, Kaiden, Ariana, Braelynn, and Skyla.

Wanda was raised by Ronald and Linda Bouck. She graduated from Canajoharie High School, class of 1982, then attended Oswego State University. She graduated from SUNY Albany with a bachelor’s in education focused on High School English.

Wanda was most recently employed as a caseworker at Montgomery County DSS. She previously worked as a substitute teacher and also enjoyed working for the Pennysaver Publication. Wanda shared a passion for cars with her father, Ronald Fraker, and after his passing, she owned and operated her own business, Credit on Cars.

Wanda celebrated life at every opportunity. She attended the Lutheran Church in Canajoharie. She enjoyed the beach and swimming, music and theater, and most of all her family and friends. Wanda was a trained lifeguard, a first-class Girl Scout cadet, and a talented bargain shopper and cook.

Wanda didn't like to sew, but she mended people. She didn't care about gardening, but she helped the people around her flourish like flowers. She could see the worst in people yet turn a blind eye.

Wanda had a gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome and unjudged. She always found time for her family and friends, fitting everything in and happily changing anything to make it work.

Wanda worked diligently and played riskily; her gifts and flaws conflicted. She was carefree and trusting yet also guarded; she protected her family, girls, and grandchildren with zeal. She loved elephants because, like them, she lived for her family and held the memories and secrets of those she loved forever.

Wanda was always the life of the party, effortlessly making memories for everyone on her life’s journey. She didn't just live life; she embraced it. Underneath her lighthearted ways and twisted sense of humor was someone who loved deeply and passionately.

Wanda will forever be remembered and missed in our hearts.

Wanda's family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00-1:00 PM at the Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. The burial will take place privately at Evergreen Cemetery. Wanda’s celebration of Life will be held at the Johnstown Moose Club from 430pm to 730pm after graveside ceremonies.