Nancy Ada Polzin

Nancy later moved to Ontario, where she met the great love of her life, Terry Polzin. They shared 44 wonderful years of marriage before Terry’s passing in 2009. Together, they built a life grounded in love, laughter, and adventure, raising their two daughters, Dawn and Stephanie.

Nancy and Terry spent countless weekends and summers in Bayfield, Ontario, where they formed a large and cherished circle of friends who became like family. In later years, they embraced life on the road, travelling across Canada and the United States in their RV, always seeking new experiences and making lasting memories. Their life together was defined by joy, humour, and a spirit of adventure.

After Terry’s passing, Nancy continued to embrace adventure, travelling on many trips with her daughter Stephanie and son-in-law Chuck, her close friend Judy, and at times on her own—forming new friendships wherever she went.

Nancy will be remembered for her exceptional sense of humour, her fierce independence, her resilience, and her unwavering positive outlook. Though small in stature, she had a larger-than-life personality that drew people in and made everyone feel welcome.

She will be deeply missed by her close-knit family: her beloved daughter Stephanie, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond; her devoted son-in-law Chuck, whose unwavering love and compassionate care supported her through her final months; her cherished grandson Matt and his fiancée Evelina; her sister Linda; her daughter Dawn; her two granddaughters Sierra and Matisse; and her extended family.

Nancy was surrounded by a strong and supportive circle of friends, including her dear friend of 65 years, Barb Charest; her neighbours-turned-family, Vi and Jim Scott—who shared a 55-year friendship with Nancy and were devoted in accompanying her to appointments; and many other cherished friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Nancy’s dedicated healthcare team, including Dr. Elisha Zibiri, Dr. Andrea Molckovsky, and Dr. Paul Bullock; the entire team at Grand River Regional Cancer Centre; and the compassionate hospice nurses and PSWs who made it possible for Nancy to remain in the comfort of her home until the week before her passing. They also wish to thank Dr. Kim and the caring nurses at WRHN @ Chicopee for the exceptional comfort and support provided in her final week.

Nancy’s life touched so many, and her legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in all who knew her. We are deeply grateful to have shared in a life so well lived.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made the Canadian Cancer Society or the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society.