Nancy Klingensmith

It is with a heart full of love and a spirit touched by joy that we, Lori Bailey and Eric Klingensmith, celebrate the beautiful life of our mother, Nancy Klingensmith. Born as Nancy Lee Hargrave on September 7, 1936, in Chillicothe, MO, Nancy was a beacon of light, a fountain of laughter, and a reservoir of strength for all who had the privilege to know her. She lived a full and vibrant life, demonstrating the beauty of being creative, witty, smart, and talented in every endeavor she undertook.

Nancy was a dedicated professional, serving as a Licensed Practical Nurse in long-term care at Fleur Heights in Des Moines until her retirement in 2000. She was a model of compassion and care, using her smart wit and talent to bring joy and comfort to those she served. Beyond her work, Nancy was a woman of many interests, which included reading, writing poetry, appreciating many genres of music, cooking and baking, and keeping up with world events. She was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, and found peace in nature, often capturing the beauty of sunrises and sunsets with her camera. Nancy was also a sports enthusiast, swimming and playing water aerobics and volleyball until her early eighties.

Nancy was a woman of faith and served her Christian community with grace and love. She held several offices such as Team Mother and Score Keeper for Carlisle Little League Baseball, President of Christian Women's Fellowship, Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Carlisle Christian Church Board of Directors, and she was a member of the church choir. Nancy truly embodied the Christian teaching in Proverbs 31:25-26, "She is clothed with strength and dignity. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

Nancy's love for her family and friends was immeasurable. She is survived by her children Lori (Jim) Bailey, and Eric (Barb) Klingensmith, her grandchildren Emilee Bailey, Katie Klingensmith, Jared (Jaiden) Klingensmith, and her great-grandson Miles Klingensmith. She was preceded in death by her husband Lloyd Klingensmith, her son Bruce Klingensmith, and her parents George and Iva (Ruth) Hargrave.

I invite all who knew and loved Nancy to share their favorite memories and photos on her memorial page. Your contributions will help us remember and celebrate the life of this extraordinary woman who touched so many lives with her creativity, wit, intelligence, and talent.