Nancy Ann Volpe of Ada, Michigan, passed away on Monday, April 4, 2016 at age 80. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Dean (John) Volpe; her grandson, baby Michael; and many of her brothers and sisters. She is survived by her children: Joe Volpe (Kristen), Peggy Straub (William), Patty Capes, Linda Mefford and John Volpe (Denise); grandchildren Blake (Ashleigh) Jordan, Linda Jordan, Kyle Straub, Heather (Michael) Elenbaas, Holly Sabo-Volpe, Lilly Sabo-Volpe, Brandon Volpe, Andrew (Kelsey) Volpe, Patrick Volpe, Jason Volpe, and Olivia Volpe; and great-grandchildren Koda Elenbaas, Mya Elenbaas, Paige Jordan, Kenna Volpe, Misti Volpe, and Aaron Volpe. Nancy was a dedicated caregiver who truly lived for others. As her granddaughter recalls: “When I was 12, we lost my brother Michael when he was 3 months old. He was born with a heart defect, and due to complications, was never able to leave the hospital. When we knew it was the end, I was alone in the hospital room with Grandma Nancy. She was looking out the window and she began to cry. After struggling to compose herself, she shouted toward the sky, ‘Lord, please take me instead.’” Nancy was a selfless woman whose kindness knew no bounds. Although she was camera-shy and steered clear of the spotlight, she was the glue that held her family together for many years. She was passionate about gardening and loved watching her flowers grow and bloom. Her children and grandchildren credit many happy memories to her care, including playing tag in her yard, swinging on the wooden swing, climbing the climbing tree, picking rhubarb, and coloring for hours indoors. She will be remembered fondly and profoundly missed by those who knew and loved her. She was so quiet, yet said so much! She touched so many lives and for that we were all blessed.Nancy’s family would like to invite friends and relatives to a Memorial Gathering at the home of Linda Mefford, 560 Forest Hill Ave., Grand Rapids on Sunday, May 1st at 1:00 p.m.
