Nancy L. Dietze

Nancy L. Dietze, 74, of Shelby passed away on July 2, 2013 with family and friends by her side. Born September 8, 1938 in Shelby, Ohio to Willis Creed and Dorothy Lucille (Hope) Jones, she was a Shelby resident the majority of her life and had resided in Clyde, Ohio from 1994 to 2010. Nancy was a proud member of the Shelby High School class of 1956 and treasured the friendships she maintained with her classmates over the years. She always enjoyed reciting the class motto: Hard as nails, tough as bricks, we' re the class of 56. As classmates returned to Shelby for their 75th birthday celebration last week, her spirit stayed strong as she enjoyed reminiscing about fond memories during their many visits. In addition to being a majorette in the Shelby Whippet Band, Nancy taught dance lessons at The Sally Smith Dance studio, and is now dancing on the streets of gold in heaven. She had a personal relationship with the Lord and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed directing the children s choir, teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, playing handbells and serving as a Deacon and Ordained Elder. In later years she worshiped and served at St. Paul's Lutheran Church while living in Clyde. She was formerly employed with the Autocall Co.and was a member of the Eastern Star, Rizpah Chapter #53. Nancy found much pleasure in gardening and loved having her home graced with fresh flowers. She also enjoyed collecting Holly Hobbie and geese items. Nancy's favorite role was that of wife, mother, grandmother and aunt, and she loved spending time with her family and enjoyed watching her grandchildren's many activities. Nancy is survived by her son, William (Sherri) Stewart of Ontario; daughter, Shari (Paul) Alfrey of Shelby; step-son, Robert (Cleofe) Dietze of Dickson, TN; son-in-law, Hans Boerner of Toledo; and stepdaughter, Barbara Dietze of Toledo; grandchildren, David Stewart of Seattle, WA; James (Melodee) Stewart of Houston, TX; Kevin Stewart of Ontario; Tara (Seth) Mullins of Shelby; Aaron Alfrey of Fredericktown; Elizabeth Boerner of Toledo; and Eric Boerner of Toledo; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Sandra Noe of Horseheads, NY and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 15 years, Robert E. Dietze; one brother, Stanton A. Jones and one sister, Carol Hope Mitchell. The family also expresses gratitude to Nancy's several special friends who brought joy to her life and enabled her to live the independent life she desired. Notes and cards of encouragement, fresh flowers, long evening phone calls, meals, assistance with transportation, or sitting with her through a difficult night--these are just some of the gifts lovingly given. Nancy's family will always cherish these special friends. A celebration of Nancy's life will be held 1:00 PM Monday, July 8, 2013 at the Barkdull Funeral Home in Shelby. Pastor Dan Gates will officiate with interment in Oakland Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home Monday from 11:00AM to 1:00PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church in Shelby, Hospice of North Central Ohio or Richland Pregnancy Services.