The family of Wanda Brachazek of Trenton, MI announces her passing, and invites all who knew her to remember her here.
What remains is memory — and the gratitude of those she loved.
What we carry forward is the light others gave us.
Wanda W. Brachaczek (née Mydlarz), a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026.Born on April 28, 1930 in Poland as the youngest of six siblings, Wanda pursued her passion for chemistry, becoming the only woman in her class and emerging as an accomplished chemist in postwar Poland.In 1952, she married Marian Brachaczek, her devoted partner, and together they welcomed their daughter, Barbara, in 1955. Wanda relocated to Sweden to pursue research opportunities in 1964, with Marian following in 1965. They then immigrated to the United States as a family in 1967, where Wanda was swiftly hired by Ford Motor Company's research department in Dearborn, Michigan. Her work included field experiments to measure vehicle emissions and characterization of airborne and settleable particulate matter. Wanda's rigorous fieldwork and publications underscored the role of vehicle exhaust and other particulates in urban air quality, leaving a lasting legacy in atmospheric chemistry.Beyond her scientific achievements, Wanda was a pillar of love and resilience. A dedicated mother, she nurtured her daughter with unwavering support. She cherished family gatherings and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her warmth, intellect, and quiet strength inspired all who knew her.Wanda is survived by her daughter, Barbara Nance (Steven), her grandchildren, Lee Hanus (Jaclyn), Brandon Nance, and Ashley Nance (Angela), 4 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and extended family. She is preceded in death by her parents, Irena and Stefan; her husband, Marian; her sisters, Jadwiga, Hanna, Krystyna, and Maria; and her brother, Jan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.
