Nancy J. Ronan

Heaven welcomed a beautiful angel on Monday, July 27, 2026, Nancy J. Ronan, 90, of Loves Park, IL. She was born on Tuesday, March 10, 1936, in Rockford, IL, the daughter of Alvie and Clara (Schmidt) Smith. She was one of six children.

On August 4, 1956, Nancy married the love of her life, Charles R. Ronan, whom she met at a Muldoon / St. Thomas High School dance. During the course of their 35-year marriage they lovingly raised six children, all of whom received their education through the Rockford Parochial School System, an accomplishment that brought Nancy great pride.

Nancy was a lifelong devoted Catholic. While raising their family on Rockford's west side, she was an active member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. After moving to Loves Park, IL, she became a cherished member of the St. Bridget Catholic Church family, where she was active in various committees, and participated in many faith-sharing groups, one of her favorites was “Why Catholic?”.

Nancy retired from K-Mart on Riverside Blvd. after several years of dedicated service. It was at K-Mart where she formed many treasured friendships that lasted throughout her life.

She enjoyed attending local craft shows, luncheons, and casino trips with her girlfriends. Above all, Nancy cherished her family, never wanting to miss a baptism, confirmation, reconciliation, graduation, wedding, birthday celebration or family reunion.

Nancy is survived by her six children, Debbie Niedermeier of Rockford, IL, Linda (Dale) Dolezalek of Milton, WI, Steve (Sheila) Ronan of Loves Park, IL, Patricia Patterson of Roscoe, IL, Dan Ronan of Loves Park IL, and Chris Ronan of Machesney Park, IL. She is also survived by her sister, Sister Shirley Smith, O.P., of Adrian MI; her many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles; sons-in-law, Joseph Niedermeier and Darrell Patterson; sisters, Lois Hendricks and Dorothy Smith; and brothers, Richard Smith and Robert Smith,

The love Mom gave so freely will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew her. Though deeply missed, she will forever remain a source of strength, comfort, and love. Her heart is full, her story is told.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Eucharistic Ministers of St. Bridget, Randy and Rick. Mom thoroughly enjoyed your conversations and always looked forward to your weekly visits. The family also wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the compassionate caregivers of OSF Hospice. Your loving care, kindness and gentle hands were a true blessing to Nancy and to all who loved her. Thank you.

Memorial mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, in St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park, IL, with memorial visitation from 9 a.m. to service time. Inurnment in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Winnebago, IL. Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established at a later date.