Nancy Duncan

Family was the very core of Nancy Duncan's heart. A loyal and devoted woman to the family she loved, she possessed a heart of gold, and enjoyed tried and true friendships through the years. Although she could be a little feisty at times, Nancy was just as loving, and everyone loved being in her company with her hilarious flair. Fondly remembered by those who knew and loved her, Nancy will be deeply missed.

By 1932, America's economy continued to deteriorate as a result of the Great Depression. Unemployment increased to over 24 percent, and an astounding 13 million people were out of work. Many struggled to keep their families fed, a roof over their heads, and a dime in their pockets. Even so, the entertainment industry grew by leaps and bounds and was a welcome deviation from everyday worries. Despite these times of hardship, in the Michigan city of Port Huron, Kenneth and Margaret (Miller) Mowbray found much to celebrate when they welcomed the birth of their little girl, Nancy, born on January 17th, 1932.

Nancy's father supported their family as a chauffeur, and later as a laborer in one of the local factories. Her mother, a homemaker, looked after Nancy and ten years later, the birth of her younger sister, Sally. As a child, Nancy enjoyed numerous adventures, especially with her lifelong friends, Arlene and Joan. They were nearly inseparable, and often visited the area candy stores. where she acquired her love for chocolate. They went to school together, and became lifelong pals well into their later years. Nancy had the nickname, "Mo" which endeared her to many.

Having been born and raised in Port Huron, Nancy attended the local schools. She met the love of her life, Jack Duncan, in the 11th grade, and they dated throughout school. Nancy graduated from Port Huron High School in 1949. She and Jack continued dating, and on March 17, 1951 they happily became husband and wife.

Nancy was delighted in making a good home for Jack and in time, their three sons, Mark, Gary, and Greg. Nancy took an active role in the lives of her boys, and loved them beyond compare. She would defend her sons to the end, and if anyone crossed them, they had better watch out! Nancy had a feisty nature, and never hesitated in speaking her mind.

As a family, memorable times were shared during the holidays, celebrating birthdays and taking in a few family vacations over the years, and enjoyed by all. Nancy knew her way around the kitchen, and prepared delicious meals for her family to savor, especially her spaghetti.

Due to Jack's job, Nancy and her family moved to Portage, Michigan for a year before being transferred to Milwaukee, Wisconsin where they lived for some time. It was in Milwaukee where Nancy and Jack became good friends with Ray and Phyllis Cote. They enjoyed many family activities together, and became like family to Nancy, Jack and their boys. In the early seventies, life found them returning home to Michigan where they settled in Portage.

Over the years, Nancy liked bowling, golfing, and maintained her yard immaculately. She also liked going on trips back to her hometown of Port Huron to visit family, friends, and to see her old stomping grounds. Together, Nancy and Jack went on several nice trips. Jack's work afforded them the opportunity for travel, which took them to destinations around the country. She later took a very memorable trip to Germany with her son, Mark, and her daughter in law, Pat. Along with their good friends, Bill and Hattie Taylor, the two couples truly enjoyed a memorable trip together to Colorado one year. They were so close to Bill and Hattie that their sons even referred to them as, aunt and uncle.

Along with her other activities, a weekly dinner with all of her family took place for 40+ years. Her family and friends are what kept Nancy going after her beloved husband, Jack passed away in 1980. Since losing her dear husband, Nancy never dated or had her heart set on any other man than Jack. Following the death of her husband, Nancy immersed herself in family. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and eventually great-grandchildren became her delight.

When Nancy's grandkids were young, she loved taking them to every high school musical in the area. Nancy also had a close knit group of ladies in the Portage area who were not only a source of friendship for her, but also strength and inspiration. They got together every Wednesday and Sunday for dinner, brunch, church, and movies, especially after Jack's death. A few even came to visit Nancy several times a week after she began residing at The Springs of Bronson. With Nancy's wonderful sense of humor, it was always a joy to be in her company.

Nancy was a faithful member of Portage United Church of Christ. She had a passion for music, especially the classics such as, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. Although she wasn't highly into material things, Nancy greatly enjoyed her collection of elephants. When it came to the TV drama, The Young and the Restless, Nancy watched it faithfully or recorded the days episode if she was away.

Always loyal, Nancy was dedicated to those she called friend. Nothing brought her greater joy, however, than being surrounded by family. Although now gone from love's embrace, the heart of Nancy Duncan continues on in the lives of those she touched and loved.

Nancy A. Duncan, age 82, of Portage, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2014. She is survived by her three sons: Mark (Pat) Duncan, of Portage, Gary (Kim) Duncan, of Mattawan, and Greg (Vicky) Duncan, of Kalamazoo; four grandchildren: Amber and Randy Duncan, both of Portage; Emily and Angela Duncan, both of Mattawan; four great grandchildren: Azlynn, Jase, Aniya, and Kane. She is also survived by her sister, Sally (Charles) Hasselbach, of FL.

Nancy's family will receive friends on Monday, November 24, 2014 from 12 o'clock noon until the time of her funeral service, 1:00 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage (269-344-5600). Burial at Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Please visit Nancy’s personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign her guest book and share a favorite photo and/or memory. Those who wish may make a contribution to the charity of their choice in Nancy's memory.