Obituary: Nancy Stockwell

Nancy Stockwell

Nancy Stockwell’s beautiful smile lit up a room. She was a longtime resident of Manchester, a devoted mother, and, best of all, a grandmother. Her dear grandchild, Shelby Chartrand, died in May of 2025.

Nancy, 91, passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2025, in Chelsea. She lived in her home in Manchester until June 2025. Her four children filled Nancy’s life with great joy: Julie Ashley, Steve Trolz, Dan Trolz, and Jill Trolz. Steve predeceased her in 1997. She is also predeceased by her daughter-in-law, Sandy Trolz, her two husbands, parents, and sister, Mary Hutchinson. Al Mollenkopf, her brother, survives.

Nancy was married to Wayne Trolz for 20 years and Don Stockwell for 28 years. She enjoyed her two stepsons, Michael (Dawna) Stockwell and David (Rene) Stockwell, and step-grandchildren, appreciating Marcus always remembering occasions with cards and flowers.

Gardening, creative art projects, and caring for her home brought Nancy great satisfaction. Her neighbor Cathy was a wonderful friend and helpful in Nancy’s later years. She loved frequent visits with her son and day trips with daughters and granddaughter. Shelby brought Nancy immeasurable happiness and pride. She treasured her trip to Paris with Julie and Shelby and especially enjoyed visiting Dan’s beautiful home on Lake Superior. Nancy adored her rescue dog, Ollie.

Nancy worked for Union Savings Bank in Manchester and then worked in the financial aid office at the University of Michigan for 15 years, where she helped students process government grants.

Nancy grew up in Grass Lake, worked at Consumers Energy after high school graduation, got an apartment in Jackson with friends, and began her life as an adult. She lived in Manchester all her married life and after Don’s passing, she continued to treasure her time in Manchester. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star affiliated with the Masons and a member of the Emanuel United Church of Christ.

At Nancy’s request, there will be no public service. Memorials can be given to Emanuel United Church of Christ, 324 W Main St, Manchester, MI 48158.

“Mothers never really die, they just keep house up in the sky. They polish the sun by day and light the stars that shine at night, keep the moonbeams silvery bright, and in their heavenly home above, they wait to welcome those they love.” — poem by Nathan Chilton

by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.