Nancy Kay Herriges

Nancy Kay Easter, aged 87, departed this life and entered heavenly peace on February 24th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and cherished memories. Born in 1938 in Michigan, Nancy was not only a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother, but also a remarkable woman whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.

From a young age Nancy exhibited a zest for life, captivating those around her with her infectious smile and outgoing nature. Nancy enjoyed recalling her childhood adventures, particularly the time she entered an off-limits construction area and set off a dynamite cap! She always made sure to add that she recognized her spunkiness was stirring up some trouble and that she had made a conscious decision to change course. At the age of 9 being kind to others became her top priority; and she emulated that philosophy the rest of her life.

During her high school years, Nancy was a cheerleader and social butterfly, making friendships that lasted a lifetime. Although she aspired to pursue higher education, circumstances led her to secretarial training and her first job at Northwestern Mutual Insurance Company.

At the age of twenty, she met her beloved husband, David, while at a dance at Marquette University. Nancy occasionally shared the funny story of their first date, when David picked her up in his old car that required a strap to keep the seat propped up and a piece of wood to cover a hole in the car’s floorboard. While some may have been put off, Nancy said that she was drawn to his ingenuity and humble spirit. They married on January 29, 1959 and this union lasted for sixty-five blessed years.

Together, Nancy and David welcomed four children into their lives: Christine, Catherine, Ellen, and William. As a stay-at-home mother for seventeen years, Nancy dedicated herself to helping her children, imparting to them the importance of education, friendships, and fun! She encouraged each of her children to pursue their interests and dreams.

In her late thirties, Nancy began pursuing her own career, initially working as a travel agent and then in real estate where she excelled at connecting with others. Her active lifestyle both at work and at home reflected her commitment to learning, health and wellness. An avid golfer, Nancy once demonstrated her athletic skills by making a remarkable hole-in-one on a difficult course, a feat she was quite proud of.

With her spirited enthusiasm, Nancy was known as the “life of the party”. She possessed a unique ability to make gatherings memorable, earning her a reputation as a gracious host. Her passion for entertaining family and friends created a treasure trove of cherished memories.

In her later years, Nancy embraced her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother with unparalleled joy. Her grandchildren—Jennifer, Hayley, Ian, Erica, Brenna, Lucas, Evan and Jonathan brought her happiness and only occasionally a few gray hairs. Nancy was also blessed with 6 great grandchild- Anamika, Ezrah, Keyanna, Elijah, Rafael and Izaiah who visited her often in Hartland and then at St. Camillus. Even as she was nearing death she managed to turn to their voices and smile.

Nancy suffered a stroke in 2019 and spent her final years at St. Camillus. Left with both physical and speech disabilities, Nancy maintained a positive outlook, and it became evident that kindness was at her very core. Her time at St. Camillus was enriched by the many dear friends she and David maintained, who continued to support her during her residency there, as well as by new friendships with residents and staff alike. Her entire circle provided her with strength and companionship, reflecting the love and community she fostered throughout her life.

A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:45AM at the Guardian Angel Chapel at Saint Camillus, located at 10100 W. Bluemound Rd., Wauwatosa, WI. 53226. Eulogies will begin at 11:45 AM, followed by a Catholic service to honor Nancy's life and legacy. Attendees are encouraged to park on the south side of the St. Camillus campus.

Our family wants to thank the many caregivers and support staff who took care of our mother:

Kristi, Sister Rispher, (her "angels”), Quinn, Janice, Jo, Donnell, Cheryl, Lafave, Sister Jasmine, Colleen, Barb, Xia, McKenzie, Jodie, Lindsay, Sheila, Katrina, Sally and the hospice volunteers! She was surrounded by kindness, love and respect!

Nancy will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the indelible mark she left on the hearts of those around her. She taught us the value of family, friendship, and living life to the fullest. As we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life that truly was vibrant and beautifully lived. In her memory, let us carry forward her spirit of love and joy, honoring her legacy in our hearts and our lives.

In Lieu of flowers, if you wish, Nancy was very interested in helping children. She chose the Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. If you care to donate online the gift can be sent to Https://giving.childrenswi.org in memory of Nancy Herriges for the NICU BPD (Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia) program. This donation can also be made at the service. Thank you!