Nancy Des Enfants died peacefully at home March 29, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer. A celebration on Nancy's life is planned for a later date.
Born in Peoria, Illinois to Wilma "Jean" and George Schaefer, Nancy attended Manual High School and graduated from the University of Illinois where she met her future husband, Bob. They were married in Chicago in December 1957. His Air Force career took them all over the world and along the way they had four children, Tracey Coleman (Kevin) of Portland, OR, Robert Des Enfants II(Tracey Sterling) of Bozeman, MT, Christine Des Enfants of Denver, CO, and Lisa Dickey (Matthew) of Littleton, CO. In addition to Bob and her four children, Nancy is survived by her sister, Georgia, and seven grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to Homeward Hospice of Ames.
Nancy is fondly remembered for her many interests including bowling, golf, reading, Scrabble, and crossword puzzles. Most of all, she will be remembered for her continuous availability to family and friends in good times and bad. She was a good friend to all and a best friend to many.
Nancy was a light in this world, a truly witty, charming, deeply kind woman. I admired her for so many reasons, but more than anything for her generosity and spirit. One of the great treats that came with being her daughter Lisa's best friend, was visiting the Des Enfants house and chatting in Nancy's kitchen, talking about anything and everything. She was lovely and intelligent. Her family was everything and she raised four awesome kids that adored her and make this world a nicer place. I hope I can be as good a mother and friend. I'll miss her twinkling eyes and easy laugh.
Bob--Rudy told me of your loss. Most sincere condolences to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family and for Nancy.
Dixie Murray
She is my sister, but most of all my best friend. Miss you so much.
Your light will always shine bright in my heart
The Family Friend posting is from Jennifer O'Briant Portnick
I am so sorry to hear of Nancy's passing. I didn't know her personally but have been friends with her daughters over the years and they have always spoken very highly of her. She obviously was a terrific Mom and raised some amazing kids.
My condolences to the Des Enfant family.
Remembering and missing my special friend, so grateful to have known her.
My condolences to the Des Enfants family. I had the wonderful opportunity to get to know Nancy and spend time with her family when I was younger. Nancy was always a friendly individual and always willing to listen when anyone wanted to talk. Nancy will be missed.
She was the rock in our family garden. Bless You Mom.
I met Nancy when they first moved to Ames at a girls softball practice. We had many good times during the years of our children's activities. Sincere condolences to her family.
I remember Nancy from Ladies Day at AG&CC. She was so friendly. I am sorry for your loss.
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