Wanda Brachaczek

Wanda W. Brachaczek (née Mydlarz), a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed

away peacefully on May 4, 2026.

Wanda was born on April 28, 1930, to parents Stefan and Irena Mydlarz in Poland, as the youngest of six siblings. After surviving the devastation of the Second World War in her native Poland, Wanda dedicated herself to the pursuit of knowledge. Breaking ground in the world of science, she pursued her passion for chemistry, earning her degree as the sole woman in her graduating class.

In 1952, she married her devoted partner, Marian Brachaczek, and together they welcomed their daughter, Barbara, in 1955. Wanda relocated to Sweden to pursue research opportunities in 1964, with Marian following shortly after in 1965. They then immigrated to the United States as a family in 1967, where Wanda was swiftly hired by the Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan. As a Research Chemist, her work included field experiments to measure vehicle emissions and characterization of airborne and settleable particulate matter. Wanda's rigorous fieldwork and publications helped to highlight 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 Marsia; and her brother, Janek.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.