Nancy Lea Jass

Nancy Lea Jass, 88, of Mosinee, passed away peacefully on Sept. 9, 2024, with her family by her side at Marshfield Medical Center, Weston.

Nancy was born on March 6, 1936, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the daughter of Lloyd and Vera Usher. She married Duane Jass while teaching in his hometown of Garner, Iowa. They were married for 68 years.

She went to college at Northern Iowa University, receiving her teaching license at age 19. She went on to finish her education at Dakota State in South Dakota. Nancy taught 2nd-5th graders in Iowa, South Dakota and Wisconsin. 

Nancy and Duane moved to Mosinee in 1982 where Duane became the founding pastor of Good News Baptist Church. She was also active at Good News where she taught Sunday School, small groups, bible studies, and Vacation Bible School. 

Nancy taught at Mosinee Elementary for 15 years. She was loved by her students and parents. Her classroom was a learning adventure, and her students were met with encouragement and a smile each day. 

Family was extremely important to Nancy, and she loved spending time with them. Those who are left to cherish her memory are her husband, Duane Jass; children, Shalee Jass, Barry (Cheryl) Jass, Dan (Lori) Jass, and Rick (Jill) Jass, 10 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren; her sister, Phyllis Aaland, as well as extended family and many close friends.

Books were always part of her life since she believed there was always something new to be learned and explored. She also loved animals, especially her cats. She collected tea sets, bells and pitchers. She enjoyed smelling her flowers and watching the birds as they sat on her bird feeders in the yard.

She is remembered by many for her wonderful sense of humor; spunky, humble, infectious smile; sharp wit; smart and sassy attitude. She was one of the kindest people you could meet. Many considered her a mentor and friend. Nancy is preceded in death by her parents. The family requests memorials in lieu of flowers to be sent to Mosinee Public Library.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Good News Baptist Church in Mosinee, WI, with a light lunch to follow. Visitation, also at Good News, will be from 9:00 to 11:00 am. A short private family burial will take place after the service. Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.