Nancy Winifred Oakes Ekern died quietly in her home on February 25, 2021 at 88 years of age. Dedicated caregivers, hospice staff, and Nancy's daughters provided support and comfort in person and virtually during her last days. Nancy was born and raised in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin and earned a bachelors and a masters degree from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. She taught High School in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. She and Paul Ekern met while Nancy was in graduate school in Madison, and were later married in 1956. Together they raised their four beloved daughters in Manoa Valley on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.Nancy was active with the Honolulu Theatre for Youth behind the scenes and on the stage for many years. She was the office manager for the editor of Sunset Magazine's Honolulu Bureau. She was talented at needlecrafts, and she was a voracious reader. Nancy's numerous years working for Hawaii Literacy as office manager, tutor, and tutor trainer brought her a great sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. She was an enthusiastic member of Central Union Church participating in bible study groups, in hiking groups, on various committees, in bell choir, and as a vocalist in the annual Messiah performance. Nancy enjoyed travelling internationally with Paul, and continued to do so after his death. Quietly living out her later years in their home in lovely Manoa brought Nancy a sense of peace and comfort.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Ann Lundquist Oakes and Orville Oakes, her brother Edward Oakes, and her husband Paul Ekern. She is survived by her daughters Sallie Price, Christina Matson, Carrie Mastoris, and Mollie Swift; 12 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.
Remembrances to honor Nancy may be donated to Hawaii Literacy or ProLiteracy. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private family gathering to honor her life will be held at a future date.
Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC
