Nancy D. Baesel

Nancy was born on August 9, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio, to B. Stanley and Helen Dray. She grew up in Washington Court House, Ohio, where she developed a lifelong love of learning and education.

She graduated from Washington High School in Washington Court House and went on to attend Ohio University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 1965.

Nancy devoted her career to education, working as an elementary school teacher and librarian. She taught in Washington Court House and Worthington, Ohio, and later served at Annunciation Catholic School in Cleveland, Ohio, where she inspired generations of young students with her love of reading and learning. She also worked as a librarian at Porter Public Library in Westlake, Ohio.

Nancy and her husband, Don R. Baesel, shared nearly 56 years of marriage and would have celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on August 29. Together they raised their family in Ohio before later spending time in Reno, Nevada. In their later years, they settled in Longmont, Colorado.

Nancy was known for her upbeat spirit and caring nature. She loved being social, meeting new people, and striking up conversations wherever she went. Her warmth and genuine interest in others made everyone feel welcome.

She enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, including French Polynesia and Portugal, as well as camping trips throughout the United States and Canada. Nancy also loved reading fiction, learning about other cultures, cooking and sharing meals with family and friends, and watching Tom Cruise movies. She had a special fondness for beautiful flowers, especially red roses and orchids.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, B. Stanley and Helen Dray.

She is survived by her loving husband, Don R. Baesel; her sons, Neil Baesel and Bryan (Erin) Baesel of Westlake, Ohio; and her cherished granddaughters, Dylan and Raegan Baesel.

Nancy will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.