Nancy was the youngest of eight, the only child not born in Holland, on Feb. 22, 1933, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Cornelius and Jannigie DeLange. Nancy married Warren Frederick Maart on May 18, 1953, and was later sealed to each other for eternity in the Salt lake Temple.
Nancy enjoyed her family-which brought her much joy and happiness. While living on the ranch in Melstone, she was busy raising and keeping up with her eight children with school, sports, and activities. Nancy was the queen of school bus driving and enjoyed being around all the kids. Nancy loved crocheting, shopping, and her many kitties over the years. She seemed to be everybody's mom-she was there for anyone. Nancy was a stranger to no one; she would smile and talk with all. Nancy was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Her service in the church involved Primary, Relief Society, and played organ for many years.
Nancy will be missed by her daughters, Meriel (Shane) Beck of Aberdeen, Idaho, DeAnn Maart of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Jennifer (Jim) Straight of Bountiful, Utah, Miriam (Matt) Wieczorek of Yuma, Ariz., Julie (Duane) Wacker of Roundup, Janelle (Danny) Hammons of Billings; and her wonderful 16 grandchildren - Ryan, Misti, Dylon, Jill, Preston, Jalisa, Kelli, Alex, Brandon, Sid, Jenna, Toni, Tyler, Chance, Brock, Roni; and four great-grandchildren-Kylee, Aubrey, Antonio, and Jaslene.
Visitations may be made from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, at Smith's Downtown Chapel and Wednesday, May 18 at noon to 1 p.m. at the LDS Chapel at 1000 Wicks Lane. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, with interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
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I spent most of this week in Montana attending Grandma's funeral. Funeral's are hard enough on their own, but having somewhat ostracized myself from this side of my family made this trip even more unfortunate. I dreaded seeing everyone, dealing with everyone and trying to be cordial when inside I was hurting from their past actions or words.
Yes, I knew this trip would be difficult, saying goodbye is never easy, but I didn't anticipate the healing that would come from attending. One big lesson I learned from this trip is in death, much is forgiven and forgotten. A lesson I am immensely grateful for today. The unifying factor of a loving grandmother who had gathered us together was common ground enough to let bygones be bygones. It allowed for a time where a simple hug could heal old wounds and reconcile my deep rooted pains. I cried...a lot :). And even today I feel somewhat emotionally exhausted from the whole trip. I hadn't considered the healing possibility of this trip and the emotions of it have sort of wiped me out. I also feel greatly blessed. Blessed to have a family that forgives, that loves and above all laughs. I spent a lot of time laughing between the cries. My flight home I was overwhelmed with thoughts and impressions of how I can do more, be more present and involved with the family. It was good. As I left the tiny Billings airport I had a renewed love and appreciation for my family. Family is everything.
So I thank my Grandmother whose unfortunate passing has paved the way to this healing and reconciliation in my life. I am sure she would be happy to know that it was she that brought us together to this result.
I love and will miss you Grandma.
1 comments:
love the closure that you received. and i am grateful for the healing power that it blessed you w/. Sorry for your loss though - it is bitter-sweet. You look beautiful in the pics on facebook!!
LOVE YOU!!
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