Nancy Elaine Smith Zehner (1935 – 2023)

Nancy Smith Zehner passed away on Nov. 17, 2023, at her residence at Friendsview Retirement Community in Newberg, after a series of health issues.

Nancy was born in Portland on Sept. 4, 1935, and grew up in Sunnyside when it was still very rural. She attended Milwaukie High School, and married Marion "Dave" Zehner in July 1954. Together they raised four children on a farm in Beavercreek. After Dave's passing in 2005, she moved to Salem to be close to family.

Nancy's friends and family enjoyed her ornery sense of humor and big smile. She was great with kids and often hosted her grandchildren at the farm where she and Dave raised cows and had berries, fruit trees, and a large vegetable garden.

Nancy was an incredible seamstress and a willing teacher to friends; she was especially known for teaching a unique method for inserting sleeves into shirts. She also loved to crochet and made personalized Afghan blankets and doilies for most of her children and grandchildren, in addition to baby blankets and hats she donated to hospitals. She was also an avid reader and enjoyed home and garden TV programming.

In retirement, Nancy enjoyed travel with family and friends, including cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico and Alaska, and trips to Yosemite, Yellowstone, Leavenworth, and the Grand Ole Opry. She spent her winters in Arizona for many years.

Nancy is survived by her children: Zella Zehner Smith (Rick), Karl Zehner (Charles),
Wade Zehner (Janice), and Verna Zehner Ourada (Joe). She also left behind 5 granddaughters, and 9 great grandchildren. Her granddaughter Joni, and great granddaughter Skye preceded her in passing away.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, April 14 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Marjorie Stewart Senior Community Center at 21907 SW Sherwood Blvd, Sherwood, OR.