Nancy Wilke

As family and friends can certainly attest, Nancy Wilke truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She was a powerful role model of loyalty, hard work, and determination. Nothing brought Nancy greater joy than surrounding herself with her loved ones, and she cherished every moment spent with family. Her compassionate heart was exemplified in the way she went above and beyond to care for others, and the sunny warmth of her presence could be felt by everyone nearby. Deeply loved, Nancy’s memory will be carried on by those who knew her best.

The late 1940s was a time when the world could finally focus on finding healing from the devastation of WWII. Following the end of the war in 1945, many servicemen were reunited with their families. Here at home in the United States, the economy was flourishing, and the historic baby boom was underway. During these exciting years, a young couple living in Muskegon, Michigan, were awaiting the arrival of the final addition to their family. Orlo and Harriet (Steigenga) Bush happily announced the arrival of their daughter, who they named Nancy, on March 29 of 1949. Nancy joined her two older siblings, Cheryl and Larry, in the household.

Nancy’s childhood was one typical of her generation, and rich with simple joys. As the youngest of the Bush children, Nancy learned to make do with hand-me-downs from her older siblings, but her early years were filled with many wonderful memories. Nancy learned to ride at a very young age. She had a horse of her own, Peanut, and she loved tending to the horse and feeding him apples. Nancy grew up on fresh fruits and veggies from the farm which her mother would turn into delicious meals.

In her formative years, Nancy first met the boy who would eventually become the love of her life. Richard “Craig” Wilke lived next door, and while Nancy was sometimes exasperated by his mischievous antics – like shooting up frogs in the creek with an arrow – the two eventually formed a close friendship that blossomed into love. They became high school sweethearts while attending Reeths-Puffer High School in Muskegon, rarely missing a dance or prom together. Since she was so light, Nancy was given the nickname “Feather” by Craig, which he would eventually change to “Fedder.” She affectionately referred to him as Bunk. Eager to spend their lives side by side, Nancy and Craig were married on May 2, 1970.

As they began building their future, Nancy pursued secretarial training while Craig attended Western Michigan University. She accepted a position working in administration at Borgess Hospital, where her exceptional typing skills and strong work ethic quickly stood out. Nancy also formed many lasting friendships during her years there, connections she treasured throughout her life.

Of all the roles Nancy held, none meant more to her than that of wife, mother, and grandmother. She and Craig were blessed with three children, Nicholas, Kristie, and Amy. Though sadly, Nicholas gained his wings at birth. Nancy thrived in her role as a mother, and there was nothing she wouldn’t do for her kids. She cherished so many precious moments with them. Her children fondly remember trips to the mall, days spent at the beach or parks, and time together on the lake. She made their home a place of warmth and welcome, always stocked with snacks and beautifully arranged charcuterie on a moment’s notice. Family vacations filled with boating, camping, and travel created memories that would last a lifetime.

Later in life, Nancy was thrilled to become a grandmother to Cameron, Kylie, Cash, and Chase. She adored her grandkids with everything that was in her. She sang lullabies at bedtime, attended countless events and special occasions, and never hesitated to bundle up in a coat and mittens to cheer them on in the Michigan cold. Nancy loved watching HGTV and Lucky Dog with them. Once, she laughed so hard that a button on her pants popped off and struck her granddaughter in the head! Nancy’s sweet dog, Gracie, was considered to be a member of the family as well. Gracie hadn’t been well cared for until she came into their home, and Nancy and Craig loved her and treated her to fresh salmon every day.

Nancy nurtured her faith as a devoted member of Richland Bible Church, where her quiet strength and servant’s heart were evident. Her love for beauty and joy could be seen in the little things – especially her fondness for peacocks which inspired a colorful collection of keepsakes throughout her home from wine glasses to figurines. She found joy in the songs of Elvis and The Beach Boys, filling her home with their music and dancing to their melodies. More than anything, Nancy made sure her friends and family knew how much they were loved. Her simple saying would turn ordinary moments into lasting memories, “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.” Through handwritten notes, thoughtful gifts, and quiet acts of service, Nancy expressed a love that was constant, intentional, and unforgettable.

As we gather to honor the life and legacy of Nancy Wilke, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her family. She lived each day with integrity, treating everyone with kindness. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy took every chance to hold her loved ones close. Her faith was her firm foundation, and her generosity has left a lasting impact on so many. Although she is already so greatly missed, Nancy will be remembered with every hug, laugh, and joy-filled moment shared by family and friends.

Nancy Wilke of Richland, age 77, died on April 8, 2026. Nancy was born March 29, 1949 in Muskegon to Orlo and Harriet (Steigenga) Bush. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her son, Nicholas Wilke. Surviving are her husband, Craig; children: Kristie Young and Amy Wilke; grandchildren: Cameron, Kylie, Cash, and Chase; siblings: Cheryl Bush and Larry (Linda) Bush; and many nieces and nephews.

Please join us at a Life Story Service on Sunday, April 12, at 2 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A reception will follow in the Life Story Center where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Celebrate Nancy’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Rescue Project.