Nancy Kay Petrucha

Nancy Kay Petrucha, age 86, of Decatur Illinois, peacefully passed away on March 13, 2024 in her home with her daughters at her side. She was born on July 25, 1937 to Luther and Mary (Smith) Burt.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Gerald (Jerry) Petrucha, infant daughter Mary and her sister Barbara Burt Garrett. Nancy is survived by her daughters: Laura Self (Steve) and Karen Rohman (Gary), her grandchildren: Patrick Self, Jared Rohman (Kenzie Vail), Matthew Self (Haley Soetebier) and Jeri Rohman, and Great-grand children: KJ, Danielle and Kyson

Nancy lived much of her life on her family’s centennial farm property outside of Decatur. She was a homemaker most of her life. In the early days of her marriage to Jerry they had a produce and pumpkin farm with the help of her parents and daughters. Nieces and nephews were often at the home helping with picking or just having fun out in the country. In 1984 Jerry and Nancy established Whispering Pines Christmas Tree Farm. There are many years of memories associated with these times. It was a special place and time for her grandchildren. After closing the Christmas Tree Farm Nancy continued to maintain the property by mowing on her John Deere tractor well into her 80”s.

Nancy and Jerry welcomed Anni, a Danish exchange student in to their home during Laura and Karen’s high school years. Nancy and Anni have kept in touch through the years making her family even larger.

Nancy was fortunate to have a close group of girl friends from grade school and high school days. Over the years they made 23 girls trips together, having fun, laughs and adventure. They even took on New York City without the assistance of Google or MapQuest. We are sure there are a few untold stories from these trips.

Nancy always had a positive, can-do attitude. She was organized, and kept good detailed records of events. Every grandchild and great grandchild has a photo album dedicated to them. She was a generous and kind woman who brought a smile to many. In recent months Nancy had a notebook near her bed side. She had many notes to herself including to do lists, weather conditions and inspiring quotes. These thoughts are a reflection of her positive outlook on life.

Please honor Nancy by starting your day with one of her positive thoughts:
“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a Blessing.”
“Today only happens once make it amazing.”
“Today is a good day for a good day.”
“Even when it’s cloudy, I will believe in the sun.”
“Life is better with sprinkles.”
And “Today I choose Joy.”

There will be a graveside burial on Saturday April 6 at 11am at Salem Cemetery of Decatur.