Nancy S. Fitzkee

Nancy Swope Fitzkee
January 17, 1930 – April 16, 2020

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Nancy Swope Fitzkee passed from this earth on April 16, 2020 at age 90 after a brief illness.  She died quietly in her retirement community in Lancaster, PA.  She will be remembered for her positive attitude, kindness, practical approach to life, keen wit, humor, and unfailing graciousness.

Nancy was born on her family’s farm near Marietta, PA on January 17, 1930.  She was preceded in death by her parents Clayton E. and Ruth E. (Landis) Swope and her brother Gene (Dottie) Swope.  She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 70 years, Edward F. Fitzkee; brother Bob (Peggy) Swope; sister Julie (Demie) Rodkey; children, Dave (Cindy) Fitzkee, Diane Fitzkee, and Janice (Ray) Brown; six grandchildren: Kim, Joanne, Laura, Lindsey, Stephanie, and Stacy; and many great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

Nancy spent her early years helping with chores on the family’s farm along the Susquehanna River and going to school, where she forged lifelong friendships.  Life on the farm instilled the virtues of a strong work ethic, thrift, and ingenuity that served her well throughout her life.  After graduating high school, she earned an Associate’s Degree in laboratory technology from Elizabethtown College, where she met her future husband, Ed.  They married in 1950.  After living in Seaford, DE for four years, they moved to Kennett Square, PA where they lived until they returned to Lancaster County in 1995.

Nancy was a full time homemaker for many years before accepting a position as laboratory technician at New Bolton Center campus of the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School.  She enjoyed that work and was respected by her colleagues.  She also enjoyed gardening, volunteering with various church functions/committees at the Presbyterian Church of Kennett Square, garden club, bridge club, and exercise groups.  She and Ed travelled extensively after retirement, including a “bucket list” trip to Alaska and trips to Europe to trace Ed’s combat trail during World War II.

Nancy’s greatest passion was for her husband and family.  Whether cooking for holidays, hosting family visits, baby-sitting grandchildren, preparing Sunday dinners, or attending family reunions, Nancy was happiest when she was with her family.  Time spent together at the cabin on the lake in Maine created many cherished family memories.  We are grateful for those memories, for her loving support, and for modeling a life of commitment and service.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the staff of Homestead Village, Supportive Services, and Young House/Apostle Care Center for their loving care throughout the years and, most especially, during Nancy’s final hours.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate Nancy’s life.  Cremation Services of Lancaster (717) 273-6283

 

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  • I am just seeing this and am sad to hear of Nancy’s passing. I worked with her at NBC in the 80’s and remember her as a wonderful teacher of laboratory and life skills, including gardening and cooking a magnificent lab lunch with garden produce and a bunsen burner. My condolences to Ed and the rest of the family…she always spoke of you all with great love.
    Pam Carr

  • Dear Ed and Family – Please accept my deep sympathy on Nancy’s passing. I remember her for her kind and pleasant nature and concern for others.
    Susan Doyle

  • Dear Ed and Fitzkee Family,
    What a privilege it was to know Nancy through my work at Homestead Village. Her sense of humor, kindness, and concern for others was always present even when she herself was facing challenges. Her love for you, Ed, was a joy to behold. Such devotion always inspired me. May your cherished memories comfort you until that great day of reunion.

  • Worked with Ed for many years and taught the kids. I was privileged to know Nancy. Rest In Peace! Tim Skiles, a friend.❤️

  • You welcomed me into your family and I could not be more thankful for your love and kindness. Your strength and commitment to family is an inspiration. Your lasting legacy resides in the three beautiful children that you have raised. I love and miss you.

  • Dear Mr. Fitzkee,
    We are so sorry for your loss. It was always wonderful to talk to you and your wife at our many Kennett class reunions. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
    Sincerely,
    Norma Johnson Cole , Class of ‘63

  • My sweet Grandma. You will forever be in our hearts. You will be deeply missed. I am so thankful for all the wonderful memories we shared. I love you so much and find peace that you are free.

  • Grandma, you will be sorely missed. You have been our matriarch and glue of our family for many years. You have taught us all about the beauty of grace, humility, hard work, selflessness and love. We only wish we could all be together physically to honor you now.

  • Dear Mr. Fitzkee and family: So sorry to hear of your loss of Mrs. Fitzkee. I have fond memories of both of you at The Presbyterian Church of Kennett Square. May the Lord give you peace and comfort in the days ahead. Joanne and Bill Taylor

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