Nancy Lee Breithaupt

Nancy Lee Breithaupt, 84, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, with her loving husband Bob by her side at the Grand Traverse Pavilions. Nancy was born in Alma, Michigan, on February 23, 1942 to the late Harold John and Mary Perlea (McCormick) Broughton. She grew up with her sister, Mary Lou, who was overjoyed the day Nancy was born. Nancy attended Ithaca High School, where she was a cheerleader in her younger years. Though she missed being crowned homecoming queen by just one vote, she still rode proudly on the float. A moment that brought her great joy all of her life. Nancy shared many special shopping trips with her mother and sister and helped select clothing lines for her Mother’s store “The Mary Ellen Shop” in Ithaca. She had a lifelong love of fashion and was a true collector of beautiful clothing. She later attended Ferris State College, where she discovered an illness that prevented her from pursuing her dream of becoming a dental technician. She spent time at the state hospital and later in foster care before her life changed forever when she met Robert “Bob” Terry Breithaupt. Bob was the love of her life and her greatest blessing. Nancy and Bob were married in Bob’s home on January 13, 1973. Bob often said she was the best thing that ever happened to him. Together they made their home in downtown Traverse City, where Nancy became a familiar and beloved presence. She had countless friends and brought warmth wherever she went. Nancy was a proud breast cancer survivor. She loved music, loved people, and truly thrived when she was out and about spreading joy. Her cheerful spirit and kind heart touched so many lives. She also dearly loved her animals, especially the cats she cared for throughout the years. Nancy in her later years was at the Grand Traverse Pavilions, where she felt at home. She lovingly referred to every single person she encountered as “Honey,” and it quickly became her signature expression of warmth. Nancy delighted in spreading “honey and happiness” to everyone she met, leaving people smiling long after their conversations ended. She is survived by her beloved husband, Bob of 53 loving years; her brother-in-law, Jerry (Diane) Breithaupt; several nieces and nephews; and countless dear friends. A gathering in her honor will be held at the Grand Traverse Pie Company downtown location at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Friends are invited to share a cup of coffee and a piece of pie with Bob as they celebrate Nancy’s life. She will be laid to rest at the Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens in the Spring. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Grand Traverse Pavilions Foundation. Kindly share your thoughts and memories with Bob at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Nancy Lee Breithaupt

February 23, 1942 - February 24, 2026