Nancy Ann Ryan

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Nancy Nowacki Ryan, 62, on Thursday March 16, 2017 in Vancouver, Washington. Nancy was born on December 28, 1954 to Louis and Betty Nowacki of Columbus, Ohio. Nancy grew up in Columbus and attended Bexley Elementary, Middle School and High School. Her college days were spent in Athens, Ohio where she graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelors Degree in Social Work with a minor in music that became her life's passion. Nancy's education influenced her interaction with every person she touched. It was in Athens that Nancy fell in love with the bucolic country life and her life partner Thomas Edward Ryan, who have celebrated 37 years of marriage. After Nancy and Tom married, they embarked on their first adventure, living in Anchorage, Alaska. In 1981 they moved to Vancouver, Washington where Nancy and Tom would bring their son Sean into their world in 1989. She shared with them her love for music that had begun with her mother Betty. Nancy was an active member of the Clark County Music Teachers Association for over three decades, and had a significant impact on all her students. Each student was given her undivided attention and respect. Her desire was to find each student's unique personality and tailor her teaching to broaden their potential beyond just music. Nancy loved football, especially watching her beloved Ohio State Buckeyes in the fall. It was a tribute to her Ohio roots and a connection to her father. When her son Sean became a student at the University of Washington, the Huskies were added to her favorite team list. Nancy is survived by her husband Tom, son Sean, brother James Nowacki and his wife Catherine, as well as her many beloved cousins, nieces, and grand nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father and mother Louis and Betty and her partner in mischief, brother Robert Nowacki. Visitation will be held on Tuesday evening March 21 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the Evergreen Funeral Home at 1101 NE 112th Avenue, Vancouver Washington. A service will be Wednesday March 22 from 2:00-3:00 PM at Columbia Presbyterian Church at 8715 St. Helens Avenue, Vancouver, Washington. There will also be an opportunity for viewing at the church before the service on Wednesday from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Flowers for Nancy can be sent to Evergreen Memorial Gardens (address above). Donations in Nancy's honor can be made to the Clark County Music Teachers Association Scholarship Fund or a charity of your choice.

Nancy Ann Ryan

December 28, 1954 - March 16, 2017