Bethany Wilberding

Bethany Anne Wilberding was born October 16, 1995, along with her twin sister, Abby. Bethany has always been a giver. Since birth she taught her family and those around her compassion, generosity, and determination. She warmed us with her presence and always gave us perspective while asking nothing in return. An inspiration to us all, she reminds us to put our best selves forward. Born with hydrocephaly, Bethany proved to be tenacious from an early age. She never stopped fighting, and neither did the people who loved her. Even when she was in and out of hospitals, she maintained a steadfast yet spirited disposition. When she wasn't busy getting into mischief, Bethany would be found using her imagination while playing dress up or house with her siblings. In 2000, Bethany's life and the lives of those around her were profoundly impacted. Surviving a brain injury, she once again proved to be a fighter and a survivor. Her innocence and ability to inspire compassion helped others become understanding and charitable people. Her fighting spirit was reflected in her parents, Joan and Paul Wilberding, who strived to provide her with the best care in the face of numerous and trying obstacles. In this chapter of Bethany's life, she was able to touch innumerable lives of her family, classmates, nurses, doctors, and so many others. She was a positive force in the world and changed others' perspectives on those with different abilities. If Bethany wasn't busy impacting her classmates while attending Marcus-Meriden-Cleghorn Community Schools, she would be found snuggling under a blanket, listening to music, or enjoying a good book. In 2015, Bethany moved from Marcus, Iowa, to Mid Step South Cypress House in Sioux City, Iowa. By joining this new community, Bethany attended East High School and again impacted her housemates, classmates, teachers, and nursing staff. She inspired them to be generous and compassionate. Bethany's generosity continues beyond her death through the donation of her organs. Her legacy and memory endures. Bethany is preceded in death by her grandparents Al and Gerry Wilberding and Ben and Chris Oertli. She is survived by her parents Paul and Joan Wilberding, siblings Matt (and Ashley) Wilberding, Katie (and Steve) Cross, Jessica (and Adrian) Suarez, Briana Wilberding, Abby Wilberding; nieces and nephews Penelope, Violet, and Jonathan Wilberding, Olivia and Charlie Cross, and Adrian Suarez. She is also survived by her many aunts, uncles, and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be given to the Ronald McDonald House and Mid Step Services for all of their help and support to Bethany throughout her life.

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