Nancy Jo Elstun Dowds

1943 - 2024

Nancy Jo Elstun Dowds

December 5, 2024

Olathe, Kansas - Nancy Elstun Dowds, born November 10, 1943, in Canton, Ohio, to Albert Charles Kestel and Geraldine Hines Kestel, passed away surrounded by family on Thursday December 5th, 2024. Her life was full of kindness, adventure, and a deep dedication to those she cherished.

Nancy grew up in Canton, where she attended Central Catholic School and briefly pursued higher education at Kent State University. Her adventurous spirit led her to a career as a flight attendant with Trans World Airlines, based in New York City and Kansas City. She was a former member of TWA Clipped Wings, a charitable organization that was close to her heart. Her working career also embodied Shawnee Mission School District, NCAA and the NAIA.

In January 1967, Nancy married Donald Eugene "Gene" Elstun, a former co-captain of the 1957 NCAA basketball championship runner-up team. Together, they built a loving and lively household, raising three children: Doug Eugene Elstun, Chad Eugene Elstun (spouse Stacey Elstun), and Pam Elstun Buckner (spouse Rod Buckner). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to her five grandchildren: Devin Eugene Elstun, Katelyn Nicole Elstun, Ethan Eugene Elstun, Brooks Matthew Elstun, and Makenzie Freeman. Gene preceded her in death in March 2000.

In 2007, Nancy was introduced to Chuck Dowds, LCOL (Ret.) through a mutual friend from her bridge club who described Nancy as "she is as beautiful inside as she is outside" and how true that was. Their connection blossomed, and they married on April 12th, 2008, embarking on a new chapter of companionship with many years of happiness.

Nancy's life was filled with creativity and joy. She was an avid scrapbooker, pianist, and reader who loved traveling, sewing, and attending bridge club. Her greatest passion was spending time with her family, creating cherished memories filled with laughter and love.

Nancy's warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever treasure the moments they shared with her.

A visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. with a Celebration of Nancy's life at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 11th, 2024 at the Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, KS 66215. Burial immediately to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8300 Quivira Rd, Lenexa, KS 66215 and Reception is at Zarda's at 11931 W 87th St. Pkwy, Lenexa, KS 66215. Flowers welcomed or donations to Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Lenexa, KS.

She will forever be remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. May her memory bring comfort and inspiration to all.