Nancy Wempe

1945 - 2025

In Loving Memory of Nancy Wempe

It is with profound sadness we have to announce the passing of our beloved Nancy Wempe. Nancy passed away peacefully at her home on April 4, 2025, leaving a legacy of love which she spent a lifetime giving. Born in San Jose, California, in 1945, Nancy's childhood was full of sun-drenched days spent swimming in her family's pool and weekend adventures to the beach and mountains with her parents Leonard and Helen Calvelli and sister Elena Calvelli. That love and appreciation for family, friends and beauty would carry through the rest of her life.

As a teenager, Nancy met the love of her life, Hank Wempe, on the snowy slopes of Badger Pass. Two years later, they married and began a 61-year journey of unwavering devotion, partnership, and purpose within the Watsonville community, and more recently in Sedona as well. Together, they raised two children-Hank and Wendy-and built a family rooted in love and integrity. Together, Nancy and Hank believed in each other's vision for bringing beauty into the world, one thoughtful project at a time.

Nancy gave herself fully to her family and community. She was involved in 4-H and horses, and for over 20 years, played a vital role in the Scleroderma Foundation, always offering strength and support to those around her. She had recently been overjoyed about celebrating her 80th birthday with a family trip to Italy -a reflection of her deep love for family, beauty and adventure.

She is survived by her best friend and husband Hank Wempe; her children Hank Wempe (Leslie Wempe) and Wendy Wempe; grandchildren Henry and Nick Wempe and Leona and Blake Borenstein; sister-in-law Teri Wempe and Guy George; nephews Eric Jacobsen along with his family and Leonard Grethe. She is now reunited with her parents and sister.

Nancy had a gift for finding beauty in everything and was especially in awe of nature-be it in the mountains, at the beach, or across the desert. Whether she was planting flowers, cooking a meal, painting a canvas, or creating a welcoming home, her touch made everything more special. She brought people together and gave her love without hesitation. Nancy was a mother to many beyond her own children-taking countless people under her wing, offering wisdom, warmth, and a home. She was seen as a sister to so many who were blessed to have her in their lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant something-anything-that grows and reminds you of Nancy's joy and beauty. Donations in Nancy's memory can also be made to the National Scleroderma Foundation: https://national.scleroderma.org/site/Donation2

Please join family and friends to celebrate Nancy's love of life. Visitation will be on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Mehl's Colonial Chapel, 222 E Lake Avenue. Funeral mass will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 10a.m. at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 2401 E Lake Avenue. Celebration of Life immediately following the mass will be at the Fairgrounds Heritage Hall, 2601 E. Lake Avenue. Please come and share your memories and love for Nancy and family.