Nancy Verna
Schwanke
Nancy’s time with us on this earth is best remembered by laughter and love.
She was called home to heaven, surrounded by her family on Friday, August 9, 2024, at the age of 87 (32,036 days). Nancy was a loving wife of 64 years and best friend to Ralph Schwanke who passed before her on March 5, 2023. She was the beloved mom of Gail (Dennis) Axelson, Jay (Darlene) and Gwen (Bill) Perpich, cherished grandma of Katie, Laura (Zac), Christina, Alex (Leya), and Jacki (Andrew), and extra special great-grandma of Ellie. Nancy is further survived by sisters Pat (Gary) Krolikowski, Kathy (Don) Tolbert, and Sandy (Ben) Grade, numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. Her friends were many and the numbers constantly grew, as she lit up a room with her enthusiasm, smile, and good-natured mischief-making.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at HALES CORNERS LUTHERAN CHURCH (12300 W. Janesville Rd.) from 3pm until the time of service at 5pm. Family burial at Arlington Park Cemetery.
Born on November 23, 1936, in Duluth, Minnesota, Nancy grew up on the east side of Milwaukee and was graduated from Riverside High School. She was the second daughter of Roy and Bernadette Oesterreich, sister of Jeanne, Joanie, Patsy, Bobby, Kathy, and Sandy. An artistic, resourceful, and fun-loving homemaker, Nancy took great pride in raising her family and providing a loving, creative environment. Always looking for a challenge, Nancy enjoyed a few interesting jobs through the years, including portrait painter, school bus driver, bus route cartographer, and radio station administrator. Ideas were in constant flow, and Nancy even worked to patent a few of her inventions. In 1989, Nancy and Ralph moved from their Muskego, Wisconsin, home to the Waupaca Chain O’Lakes. Nancy and Ralph later moved to Waterford, Wisconsin, then ultimately back to Muskego. At her home at Heritage Senior Campus, Nancy was quick to make friends and endeared herself to residents and staff alike. Her family is eternally grateful for the care and love she experienced in her final months.
If so desired, memorials may be made to the local charity choices of her children: Hales Corners Lutheran Church & School, Fisher House Foundation, and H.O.P.E. Safehouse (Help for Orphaned Pets through Education).
HERITAGE FUNERAL HOME
4800 So. 84th St. (414)281-5533
Guest Book and Directions
www.heritagefuneral.com
My big sister Nancy will be missed by me, one of her little sisters. Among other things, she taught me embroidery which led me to a love of all needlework.
She had a great sense of humor and was so very talented in sewing, painting and so many other things. She and Ralph raised three wonderful children who also had wonderful children of their own..