Nancy Ann Montemurro, 73, of Kenosha, WI, passed away on August 14, 2026.
Nancy was born in Kenosha, WI on October 19, 1952, to Frank and Dorothy (Anderson) Montemurro. She grew up in Kenosha, attending Forest Park Elementary School, Lance Junior High School, and Tremper High School before continuing her education at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse.
Those who knew Nancy will remember many things about her, but perhaps most of all they will remember her laugh. Nancy loved a good story, loved telling one even more, and had the wonderful ability to laugh at herself along the way. It seems especially fitting that she was voted the funniest girl in her high school graduating class.
Nancy spent approximately 25 years working in administration as Director of Activities at Kiley Developmental Center in Waukegan, IL. Her concern for people with developmental disabilities extended well beyond her professional life. She volunteered with the Kenosha Achievement Center and served as a legal guardian for individuals with developmental disabilities. Following her retirement, Nancy began another chapter of her working life as a bailiff for Judge Bastianelli.
Service to others came naturally to Nancy. She was an active member of the Italian American Ladies Auxiliary and was instrumental in establishing its community service component, helping make service to others an important part of the organization’s work. She also participated in the bocce league at the Italian American Club and was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Kenosha, where she sang tenor in the church choir for many years.
Nancy possessed a natural artistic talent and a passion for creativity. Whether she was crafting, painting, arranging flowers, creating glass mosaics, decorating her home, watching HGTV, or taking an art class, she found joy in creating beauty and inspiring those around her.
Paddock Lake held a special place in Nancy’s heart from childhood and remained closely associated with many of her happiest memories. She cherished family gatherings, valued her many friendships, and welcomed every opportunity to bring the people she loved together.
More important than any hobby, career, or organization were the people Nancy loved. Family and friends were at the center of her life. She had a gift for listening and was always willing to set aside her own concerns to help someone else through theirs. Nancy showed her love through her generosity, support, thoughtfulness, and unwavering presence. Whether offering a listening ear, sharing thoughtful advice, or simply being there when needed, she was someone others could always count on.
Nancy’s nephews were among the greatest joys of her life. She loved them deeply, took immense pride in the men they became, and cherished the families they built. To them, she was far more than an aunt—she was a steadfast source of love, wisdom, encouragement, and support. Through both her words and her example, Nancy taught those around her to care generously, find joy in everyday moments, and never lose their sense of humor. Even as she faced health challenges later in life, Nancy remained focused on the people she loved, always placing their needs and happiness ahead of her own.
Nancy is survived by her siblings, Mark (Diane) Montemurro and Susan (Ernest) Virgili; her nephews, Frank Virgili, Ernie (Erica) Virgili, Frank (Gina) Montemurro, Anthony (Amber) Montemurro, Joseph (Alaina) Montemurro, and Thomas Montemurro, along with her great-nieces and great-nephews; her longtime friends, Maria Ignatovic, Nancy Fennema, Celeste Toigo-Cecchini, and Jim Sorenson; and many extended family members and friends. She will also be missed by her beloved dog, Gigi, who brought her tremendous happiness.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Dorothy (Anderson) Montemurro.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 7104 39th Avenue, Kenosha, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private.
Nancy’s family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Leonardo Montemurro, Dr. Katherine Abbo, Dr. Ganesh Pulla, and the staff at Fresenius Kidney Care for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided throughout her illness.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Special Olympics Wisconsin, in recognition of Nancy’s many years of work with and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities.