Nancy Louise Kertesz

Nancy Louise Kertesz, 92, died Saturday, January 11, 2025. She was a woman of grace, humor, compassion and caring. She was full of youthful energy and fun and was committed to her husband, children, grandchildren, and friends throughout her life. Everyone she touched found her enchanting and she was a woman of deep Christian faith.

Nancy, the youngest child of Rose and John Niezgodski was born in South Bend on August 9, 1932. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother John and her husband, George Kertesz (1993) and son-in-law, David Yoder (2011). She is survived by her three children and their spouses and families: James Kertesz, Amy and Steve Orsini, and Jeanne Yoder; three grandchildren, Angela Orsini Kelly (Clay), Emily Yoder and Isabelle Yoder and three step-grandchildren Jessica Yoder, Stephanie Lindsay (Dan) and Todd Yoder (Kat).

As a child Nancy attended Saint Stephen’s grade school and spent much of her childhood on Indian Lake in Michigan. She loved swimming and outdoor activities and all things in nature. Little did she know she would go on to marry George Kertesz who also attended Saint Stephen’s grade school with her. She attended South Bend Catholic High School where she was a cheerleader and stellar student and graduated in 1951 along with her future husband George. She very much enjoyed working at The Studebaker Corporation and traveling with friends while her soon to be husband was serving in Korea.

She married George Kertesz in 1955 when he returned from his military service in Korea. She was a dedicated mother and homemaker throughout her life. Her culinary skills were passed down from generations before, and she instilled a love of cooking and baking in her family. Her love of literature, poetry, classical music, gardening and old movies was passed down to her children and grandchildren; A committed mother, grandmother and pianist who was so often found reading to her children and grandchildren, playing the piano or exploring the natural world with them with favorite times at Lake Michigan. She enjoyed autumn trips to beloved spots in Northern Michigan and New England as well as winter trips to Florida. She taught us all to be true to ourselves, trust our instincts and find pleasure in doing good for others.

Nancy had a fantastic sense of humor and a fun-loving nature, and was the hostess of some of the most welcoming and entertaining parties.  She could regale friends for hours, even at the age of 90, reminiscing about past life experiences and adventures.  Everyone was vying for the seat next to Nancy at family gatherings because she created special memories for all and never failed to surprise all with a new witty anecdote always peppered with much needed common sense.

She made and kept friends throughout her life from grade school, high school and later life business affiliations. She and her friends were committed to each other with volunteering, monthly dinner meetings, outings, and vacations. She truly listened to people and made everyone feel comfortable and that they were important.
 

Nancy was so grateful and humble and loved everyone who was present in her life. Even as she became limited with aging, she found joy and solace in conversation with loved ones and in her beloved books. She maintained her selflessness, wit, and good humor until her final days with family and caregivers. She listened to her caregiver’s needs and would pray for them in her final days.

We would like to extend a special thanks to our brother Jim who has been a caregiver for our mother for the past two years, allowing her to live independently until a short while ago. We are also forever grateful to the staff at The Raclin House in Mishawaka who were angels on earth for our mother and family. 

May she be happy in God’s presence joining her loving husband and family members and friends. Our dear mother, grandmother, and friend, we will miss you so much. Your memories will continue to enchant our days. Simply the best Mother and Grandmother ever. 

Private memorial services are being held for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Center for Hospice Care in Mishawaka, Indiana or The Boys and Girls Club of Saint Joseph County or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at Kaniewskifuneralhomes.com.

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