Nancy Ellen "Thompson" Webster

Nancy Ellen Webster (Thompson)

Beloved mother, grandmother, historian, and proud Norwegian, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born on September 19, 1936, to Alice and Martin Thompson, Nan was one of six siblings. She grew up in Wautoma, Wisconsin, alongside her sisters Betty, Helen, and Elaine, and her brother's Milton and Lawrence.

Her family's American story began generations earlier with an unexpected tragedy. While Nancy's direct lineage was living in Norway, her great uncle, Jacob Alfson, was struck by lightning and killed in South Dakota in 1859. When word arrived from the United States that land was available because he had no stateside next of kin, the family made the courageous decision to leave Norway and begin a new life in America. That leap of faith became the foundation of a heritage Nan cherished deeply throughout her life.

Nan later moved to Milwaukee, where she graduated from college and met the love of her life, William Webster. Together they built a lively, love-filled home in Two Rivers, where they raised four spirited boys. William preceded her in death, as did her beloved son, Jeff.

Being a mother was one of Nan's greatest adventures-though her adventurous spirit also led her to jump from a boat and swim across the Equator, visit every continent, play the ukulele and washtub bass in a band of friends, and even go bungee jumping in New Zealand. She embraced the noise, energy, competition, and humor of a household full of boys with creativity and resilience, creating a childhood rich in tradition, imagination, and joy. Family was her lifelong foundation, and that devotion shaped everything she did.

Her sense of adventure never dimmed. Nan downhill skied with enthusiasm and confidence, modeling courage and vitality well into adulthood. She believed life was meant to be experienced fully-whether racing down a snowy slope, exploring a new country, or walking the shores of Lake Michigan.

She was the proud mother of Jeff, Eric, Reid, and Kevin-whose first initials formed the affectionate family nickname "The JERK," later christened as the name of the family's first boat. Ever supportive, Nan even took to the water on skis herself, fully embracing her boys' (including Bill) passions.

She cherished her role as "Nan" to her grandchildren-Sydney Lockmann, Leif, Elliott, Kaiya, and Zander. She delighted in watching them grow, encouraging their interests, and sharing stories of family heritage and faraway places. Through them, her legacy continues in the most beautiful way.

Nan's love of travel shaped both her life's work and her greatest joys. As Past President of the Foundation for International Cooperation (FIC), which core tenant was staying with other families during travels, she believed deeply that seeing the world broadened hearts and minds, and that hosting international visitors shrank the borders between people. Nan and Bill's travels brought friends from every corner of the globe into their home. On various journeys, she even arranged opportunities to meet the Prince of Monaco and Mother Teresa in India-experiences that reflected her curiosity and fearless initiative.

Her passion for culture and heritage also led her to co-founding the Two Rivers Ethnic Festival, a vibrant celebration honoring shared traditions and global roots. At the inaugural festival, visitors could witness a wood sculptor from northern Wisconsin, jongleurs, local students acting as newspaper boys, live bands, and even a Minsk dance group visiting the United States-an early reflection of Nan's vision to bring the world to her community.

A dedicated historian, Nan was actively involved with the Two Rivers Historical Society, writing its newsletter and preserving local stories. She also served on the Wisconsin State Historical Society Board which found her frequently riding in the Milwaukee Circus parade. She believed history was not merely about the past-it was a bridge to understanding who we are.

Her Norwegian heritage remained a particular source of pride. At the family cottage in Door County, the Norwegian flag flew boldly and unapologetically-a visible tribute to the roots she treasured. Heritage, to Nan, was meant to be celebrated. Every member of her family visited Norway at some point. Her final trip there was especially poignant; she and her son were in Norway during the events of September 11, 2001. As news spread that America was at war, she quietly reflected on how life had come full circle, once again finding herself in the land of her ancestors during a moment of global uncertainty.

Nan will be remembered for her intellect, leadership, love of tradition, and unwavering devotion to family. She leaves behind a legacy of cultural pride, community service, and global curiosity that will continue to ripple outward through the many lives she touched. Her life was a testament to honoring where you come from while always remaining open to where you might go next.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, 3201 Mishicot Rd, Two Rivers. Rev. Dave Pleier will officiate. Relatives and friends may call at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Two Rivers.

In Lieu of flowers, donations in Nan Webster's name may be made to https://donorservices.alz.org/page/FUNXAHXKQNE or the charity of your choice.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com

Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Klein & Stangel Funeral Home of Two Rivers, WI is assisting the family with arrangements.