Nancy Jane Haws

Nancy Jane Haws (Nilsson), age 81, of Kenosha, Wisconsin, peacefully passed away at her Overland Park, Kansas home on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on January 22, 1943, in Kenosha, Nancy was the cherished daughter of Jane and Richard Nilsson, and she lived a life filled with love, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her family.

 In her early years, Nancy was united in marriage to Donald Smitka, with whom she shared many years of life and love. After his passing, she found love once again and remarried on December 4, 1998, to Donald Glen Haws. Together, Nancy and Donald created a life full of happiness, support, and shared dreams. Their marriage became a beautiful chapter in Nancy’s life, a testament to the enduring strength of love and companionship. Nancy and Donald’s bond grew deeper with each passing year, built on trust, laughter, and mutual respect. The home they created together was filled with warmth and joy, and their relationship stood as a source of inspiration to their family and friends.

 Nancy’s career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) spanned many years, during which she provided compassionate care to countless patients. Her kindness, empathy, and dedication to others were traits that defined her professional life, and she was highly regarded by colleagues and patients alike.

 Outside of her professional life, Nancy was an avid reader, an enthusiastic decorator, and a lover of antiquing. She enjoyed dancing, walking, and shopping, and her zest for life was apparent in everything she did. Above all, Nancy treasured time spent with her family, and she found great joy in being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

 Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Jane and Richard Nilsson; her sister, Kristine Turner; her sister-in-law, Debra Smitka; her brother-in-law, Dave Smitka; her sister-in-law, Bonnie Smitka; her first husband, Donald Smitka; her granddaughter, Ashley Branson; and her dear friends.

 She is survived by her loving husband, Donald Glen Haws; her children, Carole Lynn Branson, Laurie Jean Brandel, Christopher Richard Smitka (and his wife Sharon), and Jennifer Jane Cha; her stepchildren, Marcia Harper (and her husband Jonathan) and Jeffry Haws; and her cherished grandchildren, Brett Shivers, Bethanie Burandt (and her husband Jason), Stephanie Smitka (and her wife Brittani), Kimberly Hayes, Courtney Hutchings (and her husband Nick), Natalie Robertson (and her husband Chance), Samantha Smitka, Alysa Brandel, Aidan Cha, and Alexander Cha. Nancy also leaves behind three great-grandchildren, Morgan Henry, Nico Burwell, and Marley Smitka, who brought her immeasurable joy.

 Nancy will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her spirit, warmth, and love will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

 A visitation will be held on December 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM at the Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home. May Nancy rest in peace, forever in the embrace of her loved ones. 

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Boys Town, 14100 Crawford Street, Boys Town, NE 68010. Donations can be made online by using the link below.