Nancy J. Kienitz

Nancy Joan (Carlson) Kienitz, 88, of Gulf Breeze, Florida stepped into glory on July 22, 2025, after a long journey with Alzheimer's disease. Nancy was born on January 11, 1937, to Harold and Alice Carlson in Reed City, Michigan. She married Richard "Dick" Kienitz on July 20, 1957. Dick and Nancy had five children: Debra, Kurt, Karl, Kent, and Amy. With career advancements for Dick, the family moved from Michigan to Chicago, New Orleans, Louisville, St. Louis, and Tuscaloosa. Retirement brought Dick and Nancy to Gulf Breeze in 2012. Throughout Nancy's life, her focus was faith and family. She was active in church ministries including choir, mission trips, and counseling. When in Tuscaloosa, she led the Stephen Ministries for First Wesleyan Church. Nancy leaves behind a legacy of a wise counselor, prayer warrior, and shining example for her children, friends, and all she encountered. She is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Richard Kienitz; her son, Karl Bernard Kienitz; and her parents, Harold and Alice Carlson. Nancy is survived by her children and their spouses: Debra Rongstad (Tommy), Kurt Kienitz (Karyn), Kent Kienitz (Patti), and Amy Labbé (Gene); her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Tharell Toman of Chase, Michigan; ten grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Highpoint Church in Gulf Breeze, FL on August 5, 2025; visitation begins at 10:00, the service at 11:00 with a reception immediately following. An additional celebration will be held in Reed City, Michigan on August 29, 2025.