Nancy Mae Eckelberg, 77 of Clinton, Iowa, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, at Eagle Point Nursing Home, surrounded by her loving family.
Nancy was born on November 12, 1948, in Clinton, Iowa, to Emmett and Emma (Lampe) Jordan. She attended Clinton Schools and graduated from Clinton High. In the early years Nancy worked at the Odeon Club, where she began as a bartender and later became the club’s manager. Later on she worked at Jewel Osco, then at Mercy Medical Center in the kitchen. Nancy also operated a lawn service with her son, William, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Nan had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs. Some of her hobbies involved bowling, fishing, playing baseball as a kid and simply enjoying time outside. Nancy had a passion for music, cars, and Mickey Mouse. Above all, Nan loved her family, and friends especially her son, William. She had a generous heart, was willing to help others, and was well known for her sense of humor and playful personality.
Nancy married Cy Eckelberg on June 26, 1976, at St. Irenaeus Church in Clinton, Iowa. Together they were blessed with their son, William Cyril Frederick Eckelberg. Nancy loved being a mother and took great pride in raising William (Bill). She shared many special moments with him, teaching him how to bowl and play pool. Many memories were made. William married Jacy (Schau), and together they blessed Nancy with four beloved grandchildren: Jaley, Bennyn, Bryer, and Brextyn. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them, especially sharing laughs, jokes, and silliness.
Nancy shared a close bond with her nieces and nephews, including Tammy Trost, Michael Carrington, Laurie Whitesell, David Holy, Terry Jordan, and Mike Jordan. She treasured watching them grow throughout the years.
At the time Nancy required additional care services, she met a wonderful friend named Cindy. She affectionately nicknamed her “George”. The two formed a close friendship and remained connected ever since, sharing many memories together.
She was preceded in death by her husband Cy Eckelberg; her parents; and her brother, Terry Jordan. Nancy is survived by her son, William (Jacy) Eckelberg of Clinton; four grandchildren, Jaley, Bennyn, Bryer, and Brextyn; her sister, Linda (Daniel) Harvey of Clinton; her brother, Larry (Teresa) Jordan of Galesburg, Illinois; and all her nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Saturday May 9th, 2026 from 10:00 a.m to 12 p.m at Pape Funeral Home, with the funeral service to follow. Burial will take place at St. Irenaeus Calvary Cemetery in Clinton, Iowa. A luncheon will follow at the parish hall at Christ Episcopal Church.