Nancy O'Malley

Nancy Ann O’Malley (Schwenke), passed away peacefully in Carmel Indiana on July 16, 2025, just 46 days after her beloved husband, Bill. Nancy was surrounded by her seven children and family, who embraced her with love and care during her final weeks. She was 88 years old.

Nancy was born on September 12, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she would spend her childhood and formative years. She attended Mesmer Catholic High School, graduating in 1954. During her school years, Nancy was active in choir and synchronized swimming, and she developed a lifelong love for theater, and musicals.

A passionate reader from a young age, Nancy cherished novels, poems and magazines. Later in life, she enjoyed participating in many book clubs and counted James Michener and Loisa May Alcott among her favorite authors and poets. Nancy not only raised seven children but also pursued her passion for nursing, ultimately earning her degree from Alverno College in Milwaukee. 

Nancy was deeply committed to her Catholic faith and supported Catholic Charities throughout her life. She was also known by many affectionate nicknames—Bunny, Mom, Noodle, Nana, and Grandma—each a testament to the many roles she played in her family and community.

Nancy was a devoted and loving mother to her seven children: Bill (Karen), Tim (Helen), Mike (Mary), Pat (Judy), Kate (Tony Armor), Danny, Mary Hernandez, and her, 17 amazing grandchildren; Michael Jr. (Liz), Sean (Erin), Nicole, Kelly (Kevin) Bangs, Hunter (Cora) Armor, Ryan (Stephanie), Patrick (Alexandra), Catherine (Chris) Moffo, Conor Armor, Breandan, Caitlin (Jack) Bentle, Megan (Joel) Nishida, Devin, Matthew, Isabella Hernandez, Sophia Hernandez, Benjamin Hernandez, along with 15 great grandchildren, her cousin Jane and many nieces and nephews.

Nancy is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill and her parents, Bernice (Thomas) Hayden and Roland Schwenke.

A special thank you to her outstanding care team for the past few years; Caroline, Sunrise on Old Merdian, and Hospice/Paradigm Health. And to all her good neighbors and close friends, she loved you ALL!

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Catholic Charities (Indianapolis Chapter) in Nancy’s memory. A celebration of Nancy’s and Bill’s life will take place on November 15, 2025, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. More information will be shared with family and friends in the coming months.

Thank you, Mom/Grandma/Nana for a beautiful life and a generous heart. We will always love and miss you so very much. Peace be with you.