Obituary published on Legacy.com by Heritage Funeral Home – New Berlin on Jan. 22, 2026.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 9:00AM – 11:00AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00AM at HOLY APOSTLES CHURCH 16000W. National Ave.
New Berlin, WI 53151. Entombment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery (please meet at Cemetery office 7301 W. Nash St,
Milwaukee, WI 53216).
Nancy Ann Marasch (Heyer) -beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend-passed away peacefully in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on January 22, 2026, in the comfort of her home. Known for her strong faith, deep love for family and friends, and joyful service to others, Nancy inspired all who knew her by living a life of devotion, dignity, and grace.
Born on November 19, 1932, in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Nancy began a lifelong legacy of kindness and connection. A devoted teacher in the Elmbrook School District for many years, she possessed a profound love of learning and a gift for sharing knowledge-not only with her students, but with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her hands were rarely still; as an avid knitter, she created countless gifts stitched with care, love, and prayer.
Music filled Nancy's life. She cherished playing the piano and singing with her grandchildren, creating memories that will live on through song. As a church lector, she faithfully proclaimed God's Word, and as a true prayer warrior, she lifted others up continually-often quietly and without recognition.
Nancy found joy in life's simple blessings: tending her garden, trips to the park, traveling, and frequent visits to the library, where she could happily lose herself for hours in a good book. Whether reading fiction for enjoyment or spending time in religious study and prayer, she treasured moments of reflection and connection with those she loved. She was known for her constant smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering trust in God.
Above all, Nancy will be remembered as a joyful, kind, caring, and loving woman whose faith guided every aspect of her life. Her joy was rooted in her relationship with God, and her life stood as a living testament to His grace.
Nancy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Marasch, with whom she shared a life grounded on love, faith, and devotion. Together, they built a home centered on kindness and gratitude. She took immense pride in her family of five children, eleven grandchildren, and twenty-six great-grandchildren. Nothing brought her greater joy than family gatherings, where she could often be found with a glass of wine and her knitting bag nearby, enjoying laughter, singing, and the warmth of a cozy fire.
Nancy is survived by her children: Mary Marasch; Mike Marasch (Denise); Maureen Rindt (Brian, deceased); Kathi Chapin (Brian); and Kris Holm (Duane, deceased), who continue to honor her legacy. She was a cherished grandmother to Matt (Jaime), Kevin (Yollixpa), Kelsey (Josh), Christina (Bob), Danny (Mandy), Jamie (Mike), Jessica (Aaron), Melinda, Melissa (Dan), Billy (Katy), and David (Jessica). Known affectionately as Grandma "Fancy" Nancy, she was a beloved great-grandmother to Mia, Mackenzie, Tyler, Rosalyn, Leon, Atticus, Lucia, Evelyn, Liam, Isabella, Charlotte, Kinsley, Gracelyn, Joe, Eden, Paisley, Alayna, Brianna, Maya, Molly, Luke, Hannah, Juliana, Annabelle, Colton, and Baby Chapin, due any day.
She is also fondly remembered by her siblings Jim Heyer (Sharon deceased), Paula Blazak, Kathy Chirafisi (Joe deceased), and sister-in-law Susie Marasch (Richard deceased).
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Al and Agnes Heyer; sister Pat (Don) Oestreich; sister-in-law Deloris (Al) Reuter; and other dear friends and loved ones.
The Marasch family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of Legacy Hospice Care for their loving support during Nancy's final days.
Visitation will be held at Holy Apostles Church, 16000 W. National Avenue, New Berlin, on Wednesday, January 28, from 9:00–11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am. Burial will take place immediately after Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery, 7301 W. Nash Street, Milwaukee. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Berlin or Brookfield Public Libraries, where Nancy spent countless joyful hours.
Though she will be deeply missed, her family and friends take comfort in the promise of eternal life, knowing she now rests in perfect peace-reunited with loved ones and rejoicing in heaven.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23