MURRIETA, Calif. - Nancy J. Michel, 77, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2020 at Inland Valley Hospital in Murrieta, Calif., lovingly and heartbreakingly surrounded by her husband and their three children.

Nancy was born April 11, 1943 in Mendota to William and Edwina Jacob. She married Richard Michel in Mendota on Aug. 13, 1966.

Survivors include her husband; three children, Laura Dickenson, Matt (Lori) Michel and Mark (Renee) Michel; six grandchildren, Jacob and Joshua Dickenson, Alexa Michel, Gavin Ashcraft, and William and Addisyn Michel; one brother, Robert (Loretta) Jacob; nieces, nephews and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one son-in law, Michael Dickenson.

Nancy lived a fulfilling, meaningful and impactful life and all who knew her are better people because of the love, kindness and generosity she offered to others. Her family was her greatest love, her greatest source of pride and joy, and nothing gave her more pleasure than sharing with others her family’s accomplishments and day-to-day adventures, no matter how big or small. Whether she was making the “World’s Best Brownies,” writing numerous cards and letters to those she cared about, or just calling someone to check in with them, her care and concern for others was genuine. She never missed an event, an important date and or an opportunity to make someone smile and feel good about themselves. Her smile, class and caring spirit are trademarks of who she was.

Nancy was the director and teacher of Creative Corner Nursery School in Clinton for 25 years during which time she somehow found the strength, tenacity and energy to teach hundreds of 3- and 4-year-old children. The lives she impacted in this role is immeasurable and set a foundation for those students whom her husband and children still hear about today. Her role as a grandmother is the one she was born to hold. She was affectionately and lovingly referred to as Oogie for 26 years and it was clear she was the best Oogie in the world. Her grandchildren hit the jackpot. Whether she set up campgrounds on bedroom floors during overnight stays, played games, made their favorite breakfasts, bought their favorite snacks, celebrated important milestones or just spent time with them, Nancy loved being an Oogie and never failed to make her six grandchildren feel like the most important people in the world.

As a mother, Nancy loved her children beyond measure, often in spite of themselves. She was their first advocate, their biggest cheerleader, their foundation, rock and listening ear. She was a mediator, a collaborator and their go-to person when they needed to simply hear, “I’m so proud of you.” She taught them to care for others, to show compassion and to work hard for what they wanted. She undoubtedly also sacrificed more times than her children are aware to ensure their needs, and often times their wants, were fulfilled. Her children miss her immensely and cannot fathom a world without her phone calls, her genuine excitement when talking to them or just her presence.

Nancy’s role of a wife was her greatest accomplishment, her greatest source of pride, and she was able to share that role with the love of her life. She and Richard showed their children what true, absolute and unconditional love looked like and what they should strive for in their own lives. Married in Mendota, together they weathered storms, built homes, raised three children, doted on their six grandchildren and enjoyed the world of retirement. Rarely spending time apart, they truly enjoyed each other’s company and the love they offered each other. She was Rich’s angel, his dumplin’, his true love, his biggest supporter and his constant companion. It is their love that set the foundation for their family, and their love for one another can never be replicated.

While she can never be replaced, she will also never be forgotten. She was a gem, she was amazing, and she was truly the best Oogie, mom and wife her family could have had. Her family will celebrate her life in a private ceremony on July 17, where she will be surrounded by the love that she so willingly shared with others.

In lieu of flowers, her family has requested that a donation be made in Nancy’s name to your favorite charity.