Nancy L. Gaetz, 84, of Ashley, Indiana died Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at her residence surrounded by her family.

She was born July 27, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan to Basil and Helen (Stitsworth) Grate. They preceded her in death.

On February 6, 1960, at St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Waterloo, she married William “Bill” Gaetz.

Nancy was a bookkeeper for her husband’s business, Ashley U-Stor-It in Ashley.

She was a member of St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Waterloo and the Rosary Society.

She was a woman who found joy in stories, first through the pages of her favorite books, and later, when her eyesight made reading difficult, through audiobooks. Family was her anchor. She cherished every moment spent with them. Nature brought her peace. She delighted in bird watching, finding quiet wonder in each flutter and song. Camping in Manistee, Michigan was one of her happiest places, surrounded by trees, fresh air, and the simple beauty of the outdoors. She also enjoyed her time at their home in Florida and a good trivia game that brought out her playful side. Above all, she was a prayer warrior. Her faith was steady, her prayers constant, and her heart open. She carried others in prayer with a devotion that touched everyone who knew her.

Surviving are her husband of 66 years, William “Bill” Gaetz of Ashley; six children, Nick Gaetz of Wolcottville, Martin Gaetz of Ashley, Chris (Jackie) Gaetz of Angola, Doug (Katie) Gaetz of Hamilton, Greg Gaetz of Pleasant Lake, and Cheryl (Barney) Gramling of Ashley; nine grandchildren, Nicci, Jessica, Joe, Derek, Isaac, Zack, Ashley, Mike, and Ricky; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Monday, March 16, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with at rosary at 7 p.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Hudson/Ashley Chapel, 612 North Main Street, Hudson. Visitation will also be one hour prior to the funeral mass on Tuesday at the church.

Mass of Christian burial will be Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 1098 39th Road, Waterloo, with Father Thomas Zehr officiating.

Burial will follow at St. St Michael the Archangel Catholic Cemetery in Waterloo.

Pallbearers will be Zack Gaetz, Ricky Davis, Joe Gaetz, Mike Gaetz, Derek Fox, Troy Fox, Chuck Garrison, and Brandon Miller.

Preferred memorials are to St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church or the Steuben County Humane Society.

View a video tribute after Monday or share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com