Nancy L.Henry Zwiener

Nancy L. Henry Zwiener, 64, of Auburn, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2015 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. Nancy's retirement and life was cut short by a horrible disease. She was diagnosed with colon cancer in May, 2014. The cancer spread to her lungs and liver which made the battle against the disease a hard fought one. Dwight stood by her every step of the way.

Nancy was born July 8, 1950 in Garnett, KS to George R. and Madge L. Henry. She grew up in Garnett and attended Irving Elementary and Garnett High graduating with the Class of '68. Nancy married the love of her life, Dwight E. Zwiener, on August 23, 1969 at Holy Angels Catholic Church. They became parents to 2 sons, Michael Brent Zwiener and Christopher Dwight Zwiener. The boys brought much joy and busyness to their lives…mostly, being a part of their sports.

Nancy had a variety of jobs being employed by Elliots Dairy, Pittsburg Ice Cream Company, First Christian Church Day Care, Nancy Zs Day Care and the KS Secretary of States office. Her longevity of employment was at Washburn University and she loved the academic setting and the many friends she met there. WU gave her the opportunity to finish her degree that started at Allen County Community College. Nancy graduated from WU with a BA in English with a writing emphasis…she loved reading, English, and writing. She retired from WU in 2004 and devoted her time to being a homemaker and a helper with her grandchildren. Her 5 grandchildren were her pride and joy and she cared for them deeply…each one an individual with their own quirky personalities and beautiful inside and out! One of Nancy's passions besides reading were her outdoor plants…she tried to plant something different each year at her home in Auburn. She was proud of her pink peonies lining the driveway.

She is survived by many family members including : Dwight, Mike and Kim Zwiener, Chris Zwiener. Her wonderful rug rats, Taylor Zwiener, Hannah Zwiener, Cordelia Zwiener, Paige Zwiener and Elsa Zwiener. Also her "adopted" rug rat Jasmine McDade. 4 loving brothers and their spouses, Lee and Lois Henry, Steve Henry, Mike and Cindy Henry, Richard Henry and Jay Cooper. In laws who have always been supportive, Harold and Ruth Zwiener, Kendall Zwiener and Bert Bishop, Diane and Jay Harrington. Also surviving are many cousins, nieces and nephews and their families whom she loved and cared for dearly. And, great friends from all parts of her life.

She loved reading her cards many times over. A special thanks to Dan, Pam and Elissa Balch for their generosity. "Good friends are like stars…you don't always see them, but you know they are always there."

Nancy was cremated per her wishes. A family and friends gathering will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Auburn Civic Center.

Please be supportive to Dwight, Mike, Kim, Chris and the grandkids. Her wish for all family and friends is to be safe, healthy and happy. And, to be kind. Don't be sad. Nancy also wishes to say that she loves you all and "thanks for coming".

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Midland Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606. Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel assisted the family.