Nancy Ann Gengnagel

Nancy Ann Gengnagel passed away on July 10, 2025 at the age of 93. Nancy was born in Kendallville, Indiana to the late Willard and Marjorie (Graf) Underhill.

Nancy attended Indiana University earning a degree in education and was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. She was a beloved educator and dedicated her life to shaping young minds as a second-grade teacher.

Nancy was an avid reader and an enthusiastic bridge player. As a young girl, she excelled at playing the piano, receiving numerous awards for her performances.

In 1954, Nancy married Edward Gengnagel in their hometown of Butler, Indiana. They were together for 49 years until his passing. Their journey took them from Indiana to Springfield, Illinois where their two daughters, Sally and Susan, were born. Ultimately, they settled in Libertyville, Illinois where they created a loving home for their family. Nancy moved to Ft. Wayne, Indiana in 2006, after Edward’s passing. She spent the past 2 years in Carmel, Indiana to be closer to her family.

Every year Nancy and Edward spent the winter in Scottsdale, Arizona to escape the cold of the Midwest. Each summer their family enjoyed time spent together on Hilton Head Island.

In later years, Nancy reconnected with a high school friend, Bill Crone, and the two enjoyed a close companionship that lasted for 17 years.

Nancy will be remembered for her caring spirit, her unwavering commitment to her family, and for her warmth and kindness.

Nancy is survived by her daughters, Sally (John) Gillihan and Susan (Vic) Raibikis; grandchildren, Matthew (Amanda) Gillihan, David (Lizzy) Gillihan, Kesley Raibikis and Jack (Jen) Raibikis; great-grandchildren, Sophia, Scottie, and Sam; and her brother Sam (Kathy) Underhill. She was preceded in passing by her loving husband, Edward, her devoted companion, Bill, her parents, Willard and Marjorie Underhill and her brother Tom Underhill.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Nancy’s love of reading to children, memorial contributions can be made to:

Carmel, Indiana Public Library

Mariemont, Ohio Public Library