Nancy E Santer's Obituary
On February 22, 2023, Nancy Elaine Santer was called home to her heavenly Father at the age of 76. Born to Elmer and Bertha (Degault) Thomas on October 7, 1946, Nancy was the third born of four sisters. The young family moved from Chelsea, MA to Lansing, MI where she grew up and went to school. Tragedy struck the quintet of women when Nancy was 16 and her father died, her mother and the girls carrying on as best they could.
Nancy entered the Navy after she graduated, serving honorably for 3 years from 1964-1967. It was in Philadelphia while they both were in the Armed Forces that Nancy met her lifelong partner, Donald Santer. The two married just before Christmas on December 23, 1966. Following her discharge, Don was transferred to Italy where they welcomed their first child, Don Jr. After traveling Europe for the next few years, the family returned to the States, settling in and adding a daughter, Marlo, to the family.
Nancy put her homemaking skills to good use, starting and running a successful house-cleaning business while raising their two children. She was known for her strong faith and loved her community, New Hope. There she spent untold volunteer hours for 22 full years and was known as part of the “New Hope Crafting Ladies”. Her skilled hands made a variety of items for friends and family from homemade cards to cross-stitch and photo albums. These treasures will be lovingly cherished.
Igniting the travel spark that began in their youth, Nancy and Don spent 15 wonderful years touring the Country with their 5th wheel, taking in all the sights and sounds they could firsthand. A very caring person, Nancy would help anyone at the drop of a hat and was known for her joyful sense of humor.
Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Bertha Thomas; sister, Katherine.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Don; son, Donald (Alison) Santer Jr.; daughter Marlo (Donald) Wiltse; grandchildren, Ridley, Hunter, Jaydon, Jeff, and Jacob; and sisters, Pat and Sandy and their families. A memorial service will be March 8th at New Hope United Methodist Church, Mecosta, MI, at 11:00am with visitation one hour prior to the service.
Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to New Hope United Methodist Church's Mortgage Fund. Envelopes will be available at the church.
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