Wendy Giga

Wendy Wynn Ortel Giga, aged 70, of Beachwood, NJ died peacefully in her sleep on March 31st. A graduate of Toms River High School South, she attended Culver Stockton College in Canton, Missouri. She loved singing, and performed in school musicals as well as in her church choir. In her early twenties, Wendy volunteered in a number of fundraisers for a drug rehab charitable organization, performing as a singer in monthly variety shows, the proceeds of which were donated to the charity.When she had the means, Wendy did what she could to help those in need. On more than one occasion, she invited relatives or friends who needed a place to stay to move in with her until their situations improved.She was a dedicated and loving mother of seven, who lived her life for her children. Wendy was also a loving wife, sister, and daughter. The measure of who Wendy was will live on in all of her children, sister, brothers, and grandchildren. Her legacy will continue to positively impact those who knew her. Wendy was a well known member of various churches, and loved singing in the choir. She was an animal lover who particularly loved horses. Some are remembered with statues erected in their honor or landmarks bearing their names. Wendy may not receive these honors, yet her memory will endure. She should not be remembered for her faults or the hardships she experienced. Wendy should be remembered for the perseverance she displayed when facing these challenges, as well as the positive attitude she maintained and her ready smile.Wendy's legacy can be seen in the fine children she raised, in the special and impactful men and women they have become. She accomplished something beautiful and will forever be loved. Wendy will be missed for many things, but most of all for her generosity, intelligence, and contagious laugh. Predeceased by her husband, Johan, and her son, John; Wendy is survived by her children and their spouses; Dolores and Glen Walshlegger, Marine Corps Veteran Ivan and Maria Giga, Eva and Omar Leak, Marine Corps Veteran John Giga, Timothy Giga and Mary Giga; her sister, Lela and her husband Walter Schultz; her brothers, Philip, Dave and Tim Ortel; her grandchildren, Gabby and Omar Leak, and Damian Giga; also surviving are her cousins, The Gardner and Osborne families; her nephews, Matthew, Peter, and Ryan Schultz, Tyler Ortel, and her niece, Lauren Ortel. A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held at a later date.