Nancy J. Childs

Nancy Joanne Childs, 92, of Comstock Park, MI passed away peacefully on Monday, October 12, 2026 at New Haven Assisted Living with her daughter by her side. She was born on February 18, 1934 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of Vera (Allen-Sarto) North and Jack Sarto.

Over the years, she became the proud big sister to 7 siblings.

Nancy attended Union High School (Grand Rapids) and Wayne State University (Detroit), graduating as a registered nurse. She worked for many years as a supervisor at Zeeland Hospital, but also found time to crochet numerous, creative afghans for her family.

In 1955, Nancy married Donald Childs. They welcomed four children into their lives that survive her: Don (Lauren), Kelly Smit (best friend, Dan), Scott (Shirley), and Laura Koetje (John); and were blessed with 5 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; siblings, Gary Sarto (Frank Smith); Jani Hoffbauer (Mike); Marcia Russell (Bill); Kathy Sarto-Spicer (Steve); Keith (Diana); Steve, and Celeste Etzkorn (Joe); cousins, Dave (Anne), Mary Fran, Andrea, Elma (Jon) as well as special sister-in-law Kiki Ganz.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Vera North, loving stepfather, Willard R. North, and Jack (Hilda), her Mother-in-law, Ellen, several brothers-in-law, as well as Frank, Jani, Marcia, Steve Spicer, Dave, Anne, and Andrea.

Upon retirement, Nancy and Don climbed aboard the "Childs Play," their houseboat, and traveled from Michigan to Florida over the course of 6 months. This was a trip of a lifetime that involved navigating through the Trent-Severn waterway with 44 locks, docking within sight of the Statue of Liberty for Independence Day fireworks, golfing in Myrtle Beach, gambling in Atlantic City, and even skirting hurricane Hugo. Once in Florida, they lived on the boat for 9 years. After selling "Childs Play," they once again kicked up their heels at the Villages where they lived for several more years.

Nancy wasn't just an adventurous traveler. She was also a sportswoman at heart who frequently bested her husband and others at golf, bowling, tennis, fishing, poker, and other sports.

Outside of her family and friends, Nancy's cats, both real and robotic, remained at the center of her heart. They were truly her babies in her final years.

Nancy's family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate, loving staff and owners of New Haven Assisted living in Comstock Park where she spent her final few days. Also, we would like to give special thanks to Interim Hospice for their exceptional comfort and kindness.

Nancy was loved and will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, consider a charitable donation to the Alzheimer's Association, please. If you're unable to do so, please visit a person at an assisted living or memory care center. Your presence there will be a comfort.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.