Nancy Marie Schlei

Nancy Marie Schlei went to heaven on July 17th, 2012. She was the widow of James G. Schlei and they were reunited on the day that would have been their 47th wedding anniversary. She was 66 years old. Nancy was born on February 7th, 1946 in Medford, WI. She married Jim, the boy next door, on July 17th, 1965 in Menomonee Falls. They spent many happy years together, in Wisconsin, raising their three children. Nancy was a gifted artist and loved to paint, sketch and create. She was a very talented seamstress, quilter, crafter, gardener, decorator and adventurous cook as well. Nancy excelled at almost anything involving her creative skills. She was able to share her talents in many ways, from volunteering with Scouting, to working with children at vacation Bible School. She belonged to several book clubs, cooking, painting and quilting groups throughout the years and her large collection of books and cookbooks serves as a history of those experiences. Nancy was a member of Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Oconomowoc. She loved her husband and family dearly and is survived by her three children and six grandchildren; Daughter, Vicki Fritter (Darrell) of Fredericksburg, VA and their sons, Colin and Brenden . Son, Bradley Schlei (Lori) of Milwaukee and their sons, Christopher and Nicholas. Daughter, Melissa Peters (David) of Merton and their children, Mitchell and Lauren. Nancy is further survived by her Mother, Joyce Wedeman of Oceanside, CA. Sisters, Jeanne Wedeman of Oakland, CA and Shelley Erl of West Allis. She is also survived by her brother, William Ruesch of Bristol. She also leaves behind two very special cats, Emma and Hanna, who she loved so much. She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, James (Jim) Schlei; her father, Harold Wedeman; and her brother, Donald Ruesch. She will be missed greatly by many friends and family. Nancy was the kind of person that once you met her, you would probably not forget, but remember her wit. She appreciated the world around her and saw the beauty in many things that others did not. One of her favorite authors/artists, Tasha Tudor states it best; 'Life isn't long enough to do all you could accomplish. And what a privilege even to be alive. In spite of all the pollutions and horrors, how beautiful this world is. Supposing you only saw the stars once every year. Think what you would think. The wonder of it! Private services were held for the family.