Nancy Elaine Kempf

Nancy Elaine Kempf obituary, Gravois Mills, MO

Nancy Elaine Kempf

Nancy Kempf Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home - Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel on Jan. 26, 2026.
Nancy Elaine Kempf, age 86, of Gravois Mills, passed away January 23, 2026, at University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics in Columbia. She was born March 24, 1939, in Kansas City, Missouri, daughter of the late Elmer and Selma (Peterson) Rowe.

On June 10, 1961, in Shawnee, Kansas, she was united in marriage to her surviving husband Leonard "Lenny" Kempf.

She found joy in arts and crafts, holiday decorating and gardening, bringing beauty and creativity into everything she touched. She embraced life with energy, enjoying competitive sports as well as snow and water skiing. Quiet moments were often spent bird watching. Most importantly, family was always her greatest priority and deepest love.

Her life was one of joy, activity and love and her memory will forever remain a blessing to her family and friends.

In addition to her husband, Lenny, she is survived by her children, Bradley Kempf and Marlo Kempf. She was preceded in death by her brother, Thomas Rowe.

There are no services planned at this time. Entombment will be held at a later date at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Laurie.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

People and places connected with Nancy
How to support Nancy's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Nancy Kempf's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Nancy Kempf's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?