"Dear Mary Kay, So sorry to hear about Nanci...i remember talking with her at Stephens; we were on very different journeys but did find time to connect. I liked her spirit. Thank you for caring for her children when she wasn't able to do so. I know she appreciated your help and love. Best wishes. Jodi McAdams-Radzin"
In loving memory of
Nanci A. Donovan
July 28, 1951 - February 1, 2012
Nanci A. Donovan was born July 28, 1951, in Estherville, Iowa, the daughter of Edwin and Loretta (Brennan) Donovan. She was a graduate of Estherville High School and Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri where she received her BS degree in Fine Arts. She also attended Universidad de Ibero Americana in Mexico City.
Following her education, Nan moved to Denver, CO where she began her career in retail management. She loved to travel. She lived in San Francisco and Omaha before making her way back to the Iowa Great Lakes area where she spent time with her children. Nan enjoyed theatre and music, and she loved being surrounded by her big Irish family. She always looked forward to the holidays, especially St. Patrick's Day.
On February 1, 2012, Nanci passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, Iowa.
Left to cherish her memory are her children: Sheehan McAuley of Phoenix, AZ Brandon McAuley (Angie) of Olathe, KS; Garrett Elbert of Whittemore and Colin Sears of Aurelia, IA; two sisters, Maureen Elbert (Dan) of Whittemore, IA and Mary Kay Donovan of Estherville, IA; sister-in-law, Patsy Donovan of Okoboji; her aunt, Maxine Hamilton; eight nieces and nephews; and many cousins.
Nanci was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Pat Donovan.
Tributes
"I am so sorry for your loss and will keep Nanci's family in my prayers, always. "
"Our sympathy in your loss. Thinking of you at this time."
"Thinking of all you Donovans in this terrible time. Nanci was always so beautiful with her blonde hair and was always very nice to me as well.... So sorry about your loss Maureen and Mary Kay"
"Our sincere condolences to the Donovan family. Eternal Rest to Nancy."
"Our sincerest sympathies and condolences to Nan's family in this time. "