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In Memory Of
Nancy W. Gabalac
1938 2024

Nancy W. Gabalac

August 3, 1938 — January 7, 2024

Nancy W. Gabalac, age 85, of Toledo, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 7, 2024 at Sunset House. She was born on August 3, 1938 to Harold "Bunker" and Althea "Smitty" Wright in Oxford, Ohio. Nancy graduated from McGuffey High School and then went on to Oberlin College where she began her studies and met the love of her life, Stephan Gabalac. They married and moved to the Ohio State University where he pursued a degree from Ohio State Law School while she finished a Bachelors degree of Fine Arts.

After raising two children, she went to Kent State University where she earned her master's in education. Nancy went on to work for Goodwill and Kevin Coleman Associates in Portage county where she exhibited a skill for grant writing and raising funds for nonprofits. Later as an HR director at the Ability Center of Greater Toledo and Vice President of Human Resources at Concept rehab, she was instrumental in the selection of top organizational leadership. Nancy downplayed her achievements, saying "she was just chopping wood and carrying water."

She counted her lifelong marriage and her family among her greatest accomplishments. Nancy enjoyed hosting dinner parties for her eclectic mix of friends and family and loved having them around her table. Utilizing her quick wit, irreverent humor, and well-placed anecdotes, she made sure everyone enjoyed themselves.

Nana's greatest joy was to bring all her professional and social skills in service of her extended family. She intuitively knew who needed a word of encouragement, a listening ear, or a gentle nudge in the right direction. Though we grieve the loss of Nana's gentle spirit and wise counsel in this world we take heart that such an able ambassador awaits us in the next.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Stephan M. Gabalac. Left to cherish Nancy's memory are her loving children, Marko (Elaine) Gabalac and Shanno (Josh) Wilson; grandchildren, Sean Gabalac and Gina Gabalac; step-mother, Debbie Wright; and honorary granddaughter, Pearl Ross.

There will be no visitation or services at this time for Nancy. The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date. Newcomer Funeral Home – Northwest Chapel, Toledo (419-473-0300) assisted them with professional services.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider a gift to the Ability Center of Greater Toledo.

To share a memory of Nancy or to leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.
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