Nancy L. Giese, 90, of Durand, Illinois, passed into eternal life and the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ on August 1, 2025, at Monroe Hospice Home, Monroe, Wisconsin. 

She was born on March 11, 1935, in Freeport, Illinois, the daughter of Harold and Pauline (Peck) Schmerse. She graduated as salutatorian from Durand High School in 1953, and graduated from Rockford Business College as a medical secretary.

On September 20, 1969, she and Ronald Giese were united in marriage at the Durand United Methodist Church, where she was a member for many years. She became a member of Berean Baptist Church of Rockford in August 2021.

Nancy was employed at Canfield Clinic of Rockford, IL; U.S. Naval Hospital of Corona, CA; and Rockford Clinic. She then became secretary and "go-fer" for her husband's business, Giese Electric. She also worked at NITE Equipment for four years. 

Nancy loved being with her family and was a loving and supportive friend with a ready smile and a strong faith that was encouraging to others. She enjoyed the outdoors with gardening, flowers, fishing, and bird watching. She loved her crafts, scrapbooking, and making many, many cards for family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Jim Schmerse; and son, Rick. She is survived by her son, Dan (Kelly) Travis, North Platte, Nebraska; 3 grandchildren (Amber, Samantha, and Eric); 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Susan (Russell) Sarver; sister-in-law, Betty Schmerse; and many nieces and nephews. 

The family of Nancy would like to thank Monroe Hospice Home and the wonderful nurses and staff for their love and tender care of Nancy.

Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. and Celebration of Life memorial service at 11:00 a.m., Saturday August 16, 2025 at Berean Baptist Church, 5626 Safford Rd, Rockford, Illinois with a luncheon to follow. Cremation rites are accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Rock House Kids and Shriners Hospital. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net