Nancy Rae Niswonger

Niswonger, Nancy Rae passed away October 5, 2006 at Hospice of Dayton. She was born November 24, 1929 to the late Ray and Kathleen (Alexander) Niswonger. A life-long resident of Dayton, she attended Corpus Christie Grade School, Julienne High School, and graduated from the University of Dayton in 1951 with a degree in secondary education. A dedicated liberal and social activist, she opened a food co-op in the mid- 60s in inner east Dayton with the Marianist Brothers, providing service for churches and storefronts. She joined VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) in 1977 serving for two years, and continued to work in co-ops in the inner city. Later she became Director of Food Co-ops, overseeing over 30 sites under the United Methodist Church Ministries and the Dayton Urban Ministries, until she retired in 1994. She then became involved in the University of Dayton’s Institute for Learning in Retirement, continuing her education and serving on its Board of Governors for many years. She was a member of Queen of Apostles Faith Community for over 30 years. An accomplished painter and seamstress, she later combined these talents by designing and constructing many beautiful liturgical vestments for the clergy. She will be remembered for her intelligence and beauty, her love of music and literature, her love of animals and the natural world, and her respect and awe of the planet earth. Nancy was preceded in death by her son, Larry Meyer, in 1979. She is survived by her daughter, Sue Meyer Thompson, and son-in-law, Kent Thompson of Raleigh, NC; her brother and sister-in-law, Tom and Linda Niswonger of Kettering; her niece, Maria Niswonger Wollheim and family; and her nephew, John Niswonger and family. Also left to cherish her memory are scores of friends and acquaintances. The family is extremely grateful to the many people in Nancy’s life who have been so supportive and helpful to her in these last few years. No mention of Nancy’s life would be complete without acknowledging the importance of the love and companionship she shared with her dogs; her beautiful German Shepherds Mindy, Meg and Annie, and her beloved Mutt, Katie, with whom she spent 13 of the last 15 years. A Memorial Mass and celebration of her life will be held Saturday, October 7, 2006 at 10:00 AM at Queen of Apostles Church 4435 E. Patterson Rd. A private burial for the family will be in David’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to SICSA, 2600 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH 45419 or charity of choice. Condolences may be sent to the family via the internet on www.routsong.com.

Funeral Home:
Kettering Routsong Funeral Home
2100 E. Stroop Rd.
Kettering, OH
US 45429