Nancy Ruth Kuntz

KUNTZ

Posted By: Sarah Fletcher (email)
Date: 4/29/2024 at 08:23:05

Nancy Ruth Kuntz
June 17, 1969-April 6, 2024

Nancy was born in Dubuque, Iowa, and was adopted by Ken and Ruth Kuntz when she was ten days old. Her brother David was so excited when she arrived! He always loved her deeply as has everyone who knew her.

Nancy attended Ernest Horn Elementary School, Northwest Junior High, and West High School. Soccer was an early interest in junior high. Nancy won an award the first year for the most improved player when no longer pleading, “Don’t kick it to me!”

She had a special love for rescue cats and had several through the years. She attended the University of Iowa for a short time, then enlisted in the Navy. Sadly, she had to retire when her bi-polar disorder first appeared. One of the greatest periods in her life was being the office administrator when Dave had his company here in Iowa City for a few years.

Nancy bravely battled her disorder which is an absolutely awful thing. She tried very hard to remain independent, keep steady work and be a good and loving person. She had a strong intellect and great sense of humor. She loved games of all kinds and was very good at them. When her disease was under control, she was wonderful to be around.

One of the many tough problems with bi-polar disorder is that though often successfully treated, many times the person feels like they no longer need medication (which has many unpleasant side-effects) so they stop taking it, and then the situation inevitably deteriorates. It is heart-breaking to see that cycle unfold, but we learned that understanding, patience, and compassion are the only way to deal with it.

We are grateful to and thank everyone who gave her support and rescue: from her doctors and medical staffs to our friends who helped in times of need; to the Iowa City Police and Johnson County Sheriff’s Department who, when she was at some of her most difficult moments, treated her with understanding and dignity rather than blame. We hope everyone will some day come to understand this devastating, pernicious, and tragic mental illness. We can celebrate that Nancy will no longer have to experience the misery she too often felt.

Nancy was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, and cousin. One of her greatest qualities was her empathy and compassion with those who had any number of challenges. And though she never had a great deal of money, she was completely generous with everyone she knew, including her niece Katie and her nephews John and Peter for whom she would always have a birthday or Christmas present.

Nancy’s father, Ken, preceded her in death December 8, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Nancy’s name to any agency who provides housing to persons with mental illness like Shelter House in Iowa City (429 Southgate Ave., 52240) or Hillcrest Family Services in Dubuque (2005 Asbury Road, 52001).

An informal time of visiting will be held at Lensing Funeral Home, 605 Kirkwood Ave in Iowa City, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 4 -5:30 PM. Casual, everyday clothes are preferred as that is what Nancy would have preferred.

Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service
 

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