Nancy Russell, June 1, 1943 - December 3, 2025.
Nancy Russell (Sadenwater), our beloved and forever-fancy queen, full of wonder and love, passed away in hospice care after suffering from Alzheimer’s. True to her humble and independent nature, Nancy never wanted to cause a fuss. She requested years ago that no funeral or formal service be held. Her family lovingly honors that wish.
Nancy lived her life with sincerity and purpose. She was someone who found meaning in everyday moments and believed that kindness mattered more than recognition. She appreciated a genuine conversation with friends and time spent with loved ones.
Born with a natural gift for teaching, Nancy spent her life nurturing minds and supporting young hearts. Whether she was guiding students, offering gentle words of encouragement, sparking curiosity, or teaching children that they were valued, she loved and cared for every child she had the privilege of teaching. Nancy taught at Beverly Shores Elementary, St. John’s Pre-school, Joy Elementary, and Knapp Elementary. Her classrooms were a place of patience, learning, and discovery.
She was a woman who believed in handwritten notes, a good book, and following the golden rule. She loved deeply, cared fiercely, and lifted everyone around her with her inner and outer beauty and warm compassion.
Fancy wasn’t just her look-it was her grace, and the way she made others feel valued and adored.
As much as she loved teaching, nothing brought her more joy than being a mother and grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life. Nancy cherished every story, performance, and bedtime kiss. She was their biggest cheerleader, their teacher at home, and the warm, steady presence they could always count on. Her love for them was boundless and beautiful.
She was preceded in death by her best friend and husband, Buzz Russell, whom she had deeply missed for 8,942 days; and by her parents, Rosalie and Wilbur Sadenwater.

She is survived by her daughters, Amy Dombkowski and Megan Russell; her grandchildren, Alexandra and Dax Dombkowski; her caring sister, Cristine Steele; her nieces, Kristen Miller and Kaitlin Steele; her neighborhood daughter and granddaughter, Kim and Anna-Lisse Lenard; and many friends of the heart.
Though she lived most of her life close to home, Nancy took countless, week-to-month-long visits to be with her grandchildren. These magic-filled memories were some of her happiest times. Her world expanded later in life by the persuasion of her daughter, Megan, who opened the door to travel and adventure. Together, they explored the world. Nancy loved sharing her stories of castles, cathedrals, and safaris.
Her legacy lives on in every student she inspired and every person she adored - a reminder that a life spent loving and teaching is a life that will continue to shine long after a school year or life is over.
In honor of Nancy, the family kindly requests that you take the time to write a handwritten note to someone who has made a difference in your life.

In lieu of sympathy gifts, please consider donating to the Southern Poverty Law Center or Doctors Without Borders.Nancy Russell.
Cremation will take place with a private family burial in Greenwood Cemetery, Michigan City, Indiana.  Arrangements are being handled by the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana 46360.
  To sign a guest book and leave condolences online, please visit our website at www.otthaverstock.com