Fanestil, Nancy J. (1931-2008

FANESTIL, ALEXANADER, MERRYMAN, DAVIS, METZ, GRUBE, MEZA

Posted By: Colleen Ossman (email)
Date: 8/5/2008 at 16:01:23

(Daily Freeman Journal, Webster City, IA, 31 July 2008)

Nancy Janet Fanestil, 76, of Anchorage, Alaska passed away July 9, 2008 following a spirited battle with cancer. She had been cared for in her home by her son Joseph Davis, daughter Sarah Grube, her wonderful friend Eiko, and the kind folks of Anchorage Hospice.

She was born September 5, 1931 in Des Moines, Iowa to Sterling and Leota (Merryman) Alexander. The family, including her sister, Joan, resided in Webster City, Iowa.

After divorcing Arthur Davis, she completed her M.A. in psychology at Drake University. Janet moved her daughter, Jeffeny, and son, Joseph, to Montana. She worked as a psychologist at Warm Springs State Hospital. She married Richard E. Fanestil February 17, 1968. Their daughter, Sarah Wind Fanestil, was born in 1972. Ultimately, the three settled in Anaconda, Montana.

There, Jan expanded her knowledge of flowers, apple, and Siberian elm trees. While home schooling her daughter Sarah, she was able to share her many eclectic interest, thoughts and beliefs. Jan's spunkiness and heartfelt love touched everyone who knew her. Her smile will live on in the hearts and minds of her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard E. Fanestil. Jan is survived by her son Joseph (Sarah) Davis of Anchorage, Alaska; her two daughters Jeffeny Metz of Costa Rica and Sarah (Shane) Grube of West Yellowstone, Montana; sister Joan Meza of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and three grandchildren.

A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 2 in Anaconda, Montana. Services are under the care of the KT Riddle Funeral Homes.