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Nancy L.
Ginnever
Sep 23, 1935 — Sep 2, 2026
Brentwood
Nancy Lee Ginnever (nee Nicholson), a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother known for her vibrant spirit and warm heart, passed away peacefully at the age of 90.
Born and raised in Davenport, Iowa, Nancy was the second of six children born to George and Virginia Nicholson. Nancy cherished her years growing up in Iowa, and her face lit up whenever she recounted the playful stories of her youth. After graduating from North High School, she briefly worked in local insurance offices before beginning a beautiful lifelong journey with the love of her life, Dale. The couple met on a memorable double date for pizza arranged by mutual friends, and Dale knew instantly that Nancy was the girl for him. They were wed on June 18, 1955, at the home of her sister Yvonne and brother-in-law Darwin.
Shortly after their wedding, the newlyweds settled in Dale’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio, where Nancy worked in school administration and they welcomed their first son, Kevin, in 1958. In 1970, Dale’s career with the Dana Corporation took the young family to Northern California. They raised their family in Pleasanton, Danville, and Alamo, welcoming their second son, Brian, in 1972.
Nancy dedicated many years to school administration while remaining the loving heart of her home. As the quintessential homemaker, she took great joy in creating a warm, welcoming haven for her family. One of the many ways she expressed her love was through her exceptional cooking, preparing meals infused with a care you could taste in every bite and honoring family recipes passed down through generations.
In retirement, Nancy and Dale relocated to the Summerset community in Brentwood, California, where Nancy truly lived life to the fullest. Incredibly outgoing and effortless at making friends, she became a beloved staple in neighborhood bingo and bunco groups. As a nature lover and talented artist, Nancy enjoyed capturing the beauty of the outdoors through her excellent artwork. Holiday decorating was another of her passions, most notably displayed through her cherished, extensive Beanie Baby collection.
Nancy and Dale shared a deep love for travel, embarking on unforgettable road trips across Canada and the United States—from Key West to New Orleans—alongside Yvonne and Darwin, as well as vacationing in Hawaii. Above all, Nancy’s greatest joy was her family. She was fiercely devoted to her husband Dale and her sons. As Nancy stated many times over the years, nothing brought her more joy than seeing her family all together.
Nancy’s memory will be forever cherished by her loving husband, Dale; her sons, Kevin (Julie) and Brian (Heather); her beautiful granddaughters, Blair (Tyler) and Brianna (Jake); former daughter-in-law Barbara; brother Gary (Sonia); brother-in-law Darwin (widower of sister Yvonne); sister Sandra; and her extended family and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by sisters Yvonne and Sheila and brother Dale.
Even at 90 years old, Nancy maintained a radiant vitality, a keen interest in the world around her, and a genuine, boundless joy for life. She will be profoundly missed.
The interment of our beloved Nancy will be held at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. We deeply appreciate your continued thoughts, prayers, and support.
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