Nancy Alice Forrester, 94, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 20, 2025, at her home, exactly where she wanted to be, with her loving family by her side. She passed shortly after 9:10 p.m., following a sweet kiss on the forehead from her daughter, while another daughter joined in love and support through FaceTime.

Nancy was born on August 18, 1930, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, to the late Caesar Theodore Gustav Carlson and Hazel Leona (Johnson) Carlson.

Nancy attended school at Saint Mary's School in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, before continuing her education at Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin. She then earned her master's degree in business and foreign languages, specializing in French and Spanish, from the University of Miami.

Her passion for education brought her to Atlanta, Michigan, in October 1954, where she taught school until 1956. After the arrival of her first son, Bruce, Nancy went to substitute teaching. Tragically, she lost her second born, Ronnie in infancy, but her resilience and love for her family carried her forward as she welcomed four more children, whom she cherished deeply.

Nancy worked tirelessly throughout her life, taking on various jobs to provide for her family and ensure they were comfortable and cared for. Despite life's challenges, she always maintained a positive outlook, a radiant smile, and unwavering strength.

Nancy is survived by her Children, Bruce (Julie) Forrester and Craig (Mindy) Forrester; her daughters, Terri Hodges (Tom Schlehuber) and Micky (Tom) Coughlin; as well as 15 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by an infant son Ronald Forrester and son Donald Forrester, and her granddaughter Taylor Forrester.

Memorial contributions in Nancy's honor may be directed to Commission on Aging, Hospice of Michigan or Freedom Builders.

A celebration of her life with be held at 11am on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a visitation held at 10am. Burial will take place at a later time next to her son Donald at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .