

Nancy Gail Thorsell, 94, went to be with the Lord in heaven on August 7, 2026. Born June 7, 1932, in North Dakota, Nancy lived in Irvine, California. This tribute honors and celebrates a beloved life, family, and legacy.
Nancy will be remembered for the steady warmth she brought to those around her—an enduring kindness expressed in thoughtful ways, a loving spirit that made room for others, and a joy that could brighten ordinary moments. She was most proud of her family, of being a follower of Christ, and of the peace she carried in knowing she was going to heaven.
In 1953, Nancy met her first spouse, Allen, while working at Sears in the stockroom. Later, she met Cliff through Dune McCall on a blind date. Together, Nancy and Cliff shared a spirited love of competition as horseshoe players, often winning ribbons and trophies. They also found freedom and delight on the open road with the Lazy Daze Motorhome Club, traveling extensively across the USA—collecting miles, memories, and the quiet happiness of time spent side by side.
Nancy’s home life was filled with the comforts she loved: In-N-Out, salmon, and Ron’s “Fish Tacos.” She enjoyed crocheting and was known for making fudge and Christmas cookies—simple gifts that carried her care into every gathering. She loved music by The Gaither Brothers and Elvis Presly, and she spent time watching Fox News, Joel Olstein, and David Jeremiah. Her favorite colors—pink, blue, red at Christmas, and green—added their own bright notes to the seasons she cherished. She especially loved her Ontario ranch home and traveling with Cliff in their motorhome. And in a way that surprised many, she had a special talent: she could sing like an angel—no one knew.
Nancy was preceded in death by Allen Slape (Former husband), Terry Slape (Son), and Clifford Thorsell (Husband). She is survived by her children, Debbie Brown & Ronald Brown (son-in-law), Jeff Thorsell & Kathie Thorsell (daughter-in-law), and Dale Thorsell & Susan Thorsell (daughter-in-law); grandchildren (5), Kevin, Erin, Greg, Maxwell & Allison, Ryan, and Sean; and great-grandchildren (7), Hudson, Madeline, Dawson, Jason, Clive, Linnaea, Isabella.
Visitation will be held at Draper Mortuary, 811 North Mountain Ave, Ontario, CA 91762, on September 14, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Funeral Service will follow at Draper Mortuary on September 14, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. A Reception will take place at Draper Mortuary, 811 N Mountain Ave., Ontario, CA 91762, on September 14, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A Committal Service will be held at Bellevue Memorial Park, 1240 W G St, Ontario, CA 91762, on September 14, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
In the hearts of those who loved her, Nancy’s gentle presence remains—faithful, caring, and bright with joy. In her familiar words of parting, she leaves a tender promise that feels like hope itself: “I’ll talk to you again.”
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