Nancy Hartsough

Nancy Jean Hartsough passed away peacefully at home on November 14, from the effects of cancer. She was surrounded by an outpouring of love and care from all of her friends and family. She was born to John (Jack) and Gloria Nelson in Sacramento and, with the exception of a short time in Edgewood, California, lived there until beginning her studies at UC Davis, where she received her bachelors degree in child development in 1974. Nancy played softball beginning in elementary school, culminating in four years as the primary pitcher for the UC Davis squad, at that time a club team. She went unbeaten in her junior year. While a sophomore at Davis, she met Bruce Hartsough; they were married in 1975 and they celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary earlier this year. Nancy and Bruce moved to Washington, Oklahoma and then Oregon while Bruce was employed in the forest industry. They returned to Davis in 1980 and resided there until Nancys passing, with the exception of a year in Auburn, Alabama, and another in Rotorua, New Zealand. Nancy devoted much of her time to the activities of her three daughters, serving as a leader or assistant for each of their Brownie, Girl and Explorer Scout groups, and participating in many school-related activities at Davis Parent Nursery School through Davis High School. When she became a grandmother in 2006, she then devoted much time and love to her grandchildrens care. After her children completed elementary school, Nancy joined UC Davis Extension as a part-time programmer, where she assisted with many courses in the agricultural sciences. She was a devout convert to the Catholic Church, helping guide others as a sponsor in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults for many years. She enjoyed Bible study, reading and especially her book club companions. She loved to travel, and visited Austria, Canada, England, Fiji, France, Germany, Italy, Scotland and Spain in addition to New Zealand. She always looked forward to an annual summer stay with her extended family at Lake Tahoe. Nancys mother passed away in 2006. Nancy is survived by her father and her brother, Don, both of Woodland; her husband of 35 years; her daughters Elena (Brian Burns, Sacramento), Kieran (Brooklyn) and Laura (San Diego); and grandchildren Halden and Laika Burns-Hartsough. A funeral mass followed by a reception will be held at St. James Church, 1275 B St. in Davis on Saturday, November 20. The mass will begin at 10 AM.

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