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Nancy Itano Obituary
Nancy Michelle Bledsoe Itano, M.D., 40, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 7, 2011, after a 10 year battle with breast cancer. She was born on November 9, 1970 and is survived by her husband, Kelly, her daughter Katelyn, 11, her parents, Gaylon and Lois Bledsoe, brothers Greg and Jeff and sister Cynthia Ziegenbein. Nancy grew up in McMinnville, OR. She graduated from McMinnville HS as valedictorian in 1988. Nancy attended Willamette University, where she met Kelly. She graduated with honors from WU. Nancy went on to medical school at Oregon Health Sciences University. She married Kelly on August 5th, 1995. Nancy graduated at the top of her class from OHSU in 1996. She chose urology as her specialty and matched at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN for her residency. During Nancy's residency, Katelyn was born in May of 2000. Following residency, Nancy chose to join the staff at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale. Prior to starting in Scottsdale, she completed a female urology fellowship with Shlomo Raz at UCLA. In 2003, Nancy became part of the Mayo Clinic Urology Department, where she earned the highest regard and respect of her colleagues and patients. Throughout her residency and career, Nancy won numerous awards and was asked to present papers at many national meetings. She also helped start a urology residency program at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale.
Nancy treasured her time with her family. She enjoyed traveling to various locales such as the Pacific coast, Hawaii and Colorado. Nancy had a love of music, scrapbooking, board and word games, golf and skiing. Her strength, determination, tenacity, and faith in God were an inspiration to all. Her spirit will live on in the lives she touched. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 pm, June 18, at the Paradise Valley United Method Church. A reception will be held at the church after the service. A graveside service will also be held in Salem, OR. Nancy requested that a scholarship fund be created for her daughter, Katelyn. For those wishing to donate, checks made payable to Katelyn Itano may be mailed to 16118 N 111th Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.
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Memories and Condolences
for Nancy Itano
Denise Callahan
June 20, 2011
I met Nancy my freshman year at Willamette University when she served as the RA for my dorm. She was an amazing person full of determination, drive and always ready with a smile. She inspired me as I adapted to the new world of college and I will always remember her. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Truly a loss to this world.
Ruth Knight
June 18, 2011
I first met Dr. Itano when she came to Mayo Clinic in Arizona. It was a pleasure to work with her, even if for a very brief period of time. She has remained in my thoughts and prayers over these past years, and I am saddened to hear of her passing. She was a brave warrior in her long struggle and Katelyn can be proud of her mom. Rest in peace, Nancy. You have fought the good fight, you have kept the faith.
Staff of Howell-Edwards-Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors
June 15, 2011
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
June 15, 2011
I graduated high school with Nancy in McMinnvill, OR. When I moved to Oregon (at 13), I was terrified & Nancy was one of the first people in the entire school to talk to me and I don't know if she ever realized how much that meant. This is a complete shock as I moved away not too long after high school & lost touch!! I'll never forget her quick wit and cute personality! R.I.P. Nancy!
- Lisa Dutton
Terrie Dodd
June 14, 2011
It was such a blessing to know you Nancy. I attended several scrapbooking retreats with you "in the pines" and could feel the love for your family in the pages you created....I am in awe of your strength and how hard you fought...I will miss you Nancy!
June 14, 2011
Kelly
My thoughts and prayers are with you. If you need anything please let me know. Scott Rainey 503-351-4370
June 13, 2011
I "met" Nancy on CarePages.com. I felt such a kinship with this remarkable woman. Like so many people blessed to know Nancy, I will never forget her...
Nancy B (California)
Virginia Motoyama
June 13, 2011
Dear Kelly and Katelyn,
Words seem so futile at this time, but nonetheless are expressed the best I know how. Nancy's legacy has and will continue to live on in all our lives, and the untiring strength she shared with each of us left its indelible mark as well. From the memorable wedding and arrival of you, Katelyn, add to the cherished memories. I will always be grateful for knowing and having Nancy as a niece. Though you have numerous friends and family members, please consider me as another source to be available to you now and forever.
Love Aunt Virginia
Debbie Norris
June 13, 2011
Dear Kelly and Katelyn,
You are in our hearts and prayers here in Idaho Falls. I did not know Nancy well, but I heard all about her brave battle and what a strong person she was. If we can do anything for you, please call.
With love,
Your cousins - Debbie, Tyler and Kamiko Norris
Penny Mariscal
June 12, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Nancy and me in Maui - March 2010
Jana Kerdock
June 12, 2011
I loved Nancy so much and will miss her gentle nature, great sense of humor, and the incredible "over-achiever" attitude that she displayed in everything she did. She was a wonderful friend and inspired me to be a better mother.
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