Nancy Ann Menken passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 29, 2022, only 20 years shy of her goal of 106.  She was born in Detroit, Michigan on January 20, 1936, but for the past 54 years has called Jefferson, Oregon her home.  She met her husband, Richard Menken, in the "Tip-Toppers" Tall Club where she barely qualified at 5'10".  Nancy and Richard produced 4 extraordinary children all over 6' tall (she was very proud of that).

Out of necessity Nancy became a talented seamstress and created "designer" fashions for her kids, including adding fringe to the bottom of bellbottom jeans, which was the style back in the 70's.

In the kitchen, she was unmatched at pie, cookie, and bread making. If she would have had the patience to teach these fine skills to her kids, we would have happily continued the tradition but alas it is not to be.

If you happen to hear stories being told about Nancy at Tommy's, on Main Street in Jefferson, they are probably true. She was quite the character and enjoyed her friends and the Jefferson community, perhaps too much at times.

Whenever Nancy would feel the stress of life she would head to the Santiam River behind her house.  The river was her sacred space where she had many conversations about life with the One who created all life.

She is proceeded in death by her husband of 36 years, Richard Menken.  She is survived by her children Paul Menken (wife Leann), Carol Schaudt, Howard Menken, and Mary Jo Lundvall (husband Ralph). She had 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are being handled by AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home. No service is scheduled.  Donations can be made in care of Nancy Menken to Samaritan Evergreen Hospice, who were fantastic with her care.