Nancy H. Reuber

It is with great sadness that son, Mark Reuber, daughters, Linda Reuber and Lisa Garberg, grandchildren, Nicholas and Alexa Garberg, and son-in-law, Peter Garberg share the news of the passing of Nancy Helene Reuber. 

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law, Nancy died peacefully on Jan. 1, 2024, in Edina, Minn. with her family by her side. She was 91 years old.

Born Aug. 2, 1932, in Waterloo, Iowa, Nancy was the daughter of Merle and Helen Danielson Parr. While growing up in Waterloo, her parents instilled in her the importance of unconditional love and kindness, which defined her throughout her life.  

After graduating from Waterloo West High School in 1950, Nancy attended Iowa State University, where she was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. It was during this time that she met and fell in love with John Reuber, who lived in the fraternity house next door. They were married in 1954 before moving to Des Moines, while John attended Drake Law School. It was here that Nancy developed her love and talent for cooking and entertaining family and friends. Countless, enduring friendships were made before moving to Mason City in 1958.  Mason City was their cherished home where Nancy and John lived for 42 years.  Nancy’s love for service and for the people of her community led her to participate and volunteer in many organizations. Most dear to her were PEO, where she served as President; Study Club; Bridge Club; Matinee Musicale; and volunteering at Mercy Hospital, Gardens of North Iowa and The United Methodist Church.

After spending many beautiful summers in Clear Lake, John and Nancy eventually moved there full-time in 2000. This was a cherished gathering spot and place where Nancy loved to entertain family and friends. It was here that Nancy had so many beautiful moments enjoying the water and sailing with her children, Yacht Club gatherings, parties on the deck and laughter with her grandchildren.

Despite many milestones and memories, however, it was Nancy’s family that brought her the most happiness and joy.  Married 65 years to her soulmate, John, they were a constant by each other’s side until his passing in 2019. Her love and pride for her three children was unending and her two grandchildren brought her pleasure beyond words. 

Nancy’s final move was to Minnesota, where she lived near family who were honored to walk beside her through her final journey with dementia. She lived this last stage beautifully, just like the rest. Her warmth, winks, and smiles left an indelible mark on those who loved and cared for her.

Nancy’s life is best captured by the word unwavering kindness. Always smiling, always interested in how others were doing, and always there for her family and friends. Nancy made the world a better place. And she always did it with her hallmark of grace and class.

Gone from our sight, But forever in our hearts ~ Her legacy of family will now carry on her loving, compassionate spirit.

Nancy is now reunited with her beloved husband, John; her sister and nephew, Linnae and Scottie; and her parents, Merle and Helen.

A private family funeral was held in Excelsior, Minn.  Interment will be at a future date at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, in Mason City.  Online condolences can be shared on www.washburn-mcreavy.com.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to any local hospice or Alzheimer’s Association in Nancy’s memory.  Written condolences can be sent to: Reuber Family, 7075 Northwood Court, Chanhassen, Minn.,  55317.  The family would especially appreciate friends sharing memories of their times with Nancy.