Nancy M. Wachs

Wachs, Nancy M.
Rochester: September 20, 2008. GROUNDBREAKING GREEN ARCHITECT, HUMANITARIAN, BELOVED MOTHER AND GRANDMOTHER DIES AT 76. Ms. Wachs, a lifelong humanitarian, was an inspiration to all who knew her. She was a strong advocate for the arts, education, women's rights, hospice and helping those in need. Ms. Wachs was utilizing green architecture practices in the 1950s long before it became popular. She inspired her children with a strong sense of social justice, environmentalism, and a love of nature.
A native of Rochester, NY, Ms Wachs attended Seneca School, and Charlotte High School. She graduated from Cornell University's Architecture, Art and Planning School, one of a few women at that time with a major in Architecture (class of '54). A dedicated Cornell University alumna, Ms. Wachs was on the Cornell Alumni Admissions Ambassador Network as a volunteer for secondary schools and over a thirty year period met with many prospective candidates. From 1988-89 she was secretary of her class. Her architectural career featured working for the City of Rochester and others designing contemporary commercial structures and residences. She served as a long time editor and staff member for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) of Rochester Newsletter.
In the 1970s, Ms. Wachs headed her local Parent Teacher Association (PTA) where she was instrumental in leading a team of committed parents and teachers on many social justice issues that were at the forefront of that era. She also helped beautify many classrooms by supplying art and education around the art programs in the Rochester Public Schools. Ms. Wachs was also a major support to her husband, Arthur Wachs, during his career as Director of the Rochester Water Bureau and eventual Director of Operations for the city of Rochester.
A great friend to all that knew her, Ms. Wachs enjoyed the friendship of many people in the Rochester community , including those she met through sailing. Ms. Wachs, an avid sailor, was a longtime member of the Genesee Yacht Club. She was also a supporter and member of other Rochester area organizations including the Memorial Art Gallery, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, her neighborhood watch program, Antiquarian Society and the Cornell Alumni Association of Greater Rochester.
A lover of nature, Ms. Wachs enjoyed birdwatching. She lived all her 76 years in the home she grew up in on Lake Ontario and spent summer days sailing with family and friends as well as playing golf at her favorite course in Durand Eastman Park.
As an expression of respect please consider making donations in Nancy M. Wachs's name: Lifetime Care Hospice, 3111 Winton Road S, Rochester, NY 14623.
A Memorial Ceremony will be held in the future. Please contact Molly.Lavik@verizon.net for details.
Ms. Wachs was married to Arthur Wachs who predeceased her in 2003 and is remembered by her son, Christopher Wachs; daughter, Molly Wachs Lavik and granddaughter, Lindsey Megan Trauty Wachs.

JOHN M. HEDGES FUNERAL HOME