Nancy Jane Duchane

Nancy Jane Duchane, a beacon of love and laughter, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Serenity at Walnut Creek Assisted Living in Macomb. Born on November 22, 1947, in Laurium, Michigan, she was the cherished daughter of the late Glenn and Marcella (Lillian) Loukkonen. Tragically, Marcella passed away during childbirth, but Nancy's life was filled with love and care by her stepmother, Ruth (Kuopus) Nichols, who raised her alongside her father.
Nancy's journey through life was one marked by devotion and joy. She married her soulmate, Frank Duchane, on September 16, 1969, in Hawaii, while Frank was on R&R during the Vietnam War. Their love story was one for the ages, and together they built a life filled with happiness and family. Nancy was a beloved mother to her daughter, Nicole (Tim) Golm of Cottrellville, and a doting grandmother to Nolan and Lillie Golm, who brought immense joy and laughter into her life.
Her family circle included her siblings, Mike (Marie) Nichols of Flat Rock, Dan (Mike Toppe) Nichols of Morro Bay, California, and Sara (Dave) Follebout of New Baltimore. Nancy was a cherished sister-in-law to Ruth (Donnie) Black of Melvin, Betty (Terry) Styers of Beaverton, and Rick (Connie) Duchane of Cottrellville. She was also a treasured aunt to several nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss her deeply. Nancy was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Suzanne, and her brother, James Nichols, who both held special places in her heart.
Professionally, Nancy dedicated over 30 years of her life to the field of accounting, with her final years spent at Corson Fabricating. Nancy's work ethic and commitment to excellence were matched only by her generosity and kindness to those around her.
Nancy's interests were as varied as they were passionate. She found solace and joy in her garden, tending to her plants with a gentle touch and a keen eye. Animals held a special place in her heart, and she was known for her ability to connect with and care for all creatures great and small. Camping trips were a source of adventure and family bonding, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Above all, her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Those who knew Nancy will remember her as a loving, funny, and generous soul. Her laughter was infectious, her smile could light up a room, and her heart was always open to those in need. Nancy's legacy is one of love, laughter, and kindness, and it will continue to live on through the stories shared by her family and friends.
A gathering and viewing will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Grace Memorial-Bower Rose Funeral Home, 222 N. Main Street, Marine City, MI 48039. Services will begin at 6:00 p.m. Reverend Dr. G. Patrick Thompson will officiate. A celebration of Nancy's life will follow at Perch Point Conservation Club, 7930 Meisner Road, Casco, Michigan 48064. Interment will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery privately.
Memorials are suggested to "Wishes of the Family."