Nancy J. Amato

Nancy J. Amato, 62, completed her journey on earth after more than 8 years of battling pancreatic cancer. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Chris, and her four children, Patrick, John (Maura), Katie, and Danny. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Westhoven, and her brother, Mike. She is survived by her siblings Ann (Tom) Baker, Dr. James (Autumn), Jody (Mark) McClellan, John (Laurie), and Jean (Rick) Dyer, and many nieces and nephews. Nancy was a 1970 graduate of St. Ursula Academy and 1974 graduate of Villanova University. Through her post graduate studies at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Nancy was accredited as a certified registered nurse anesthetist. She practiced for over 25 years at various medical centers throughout northwest Ohio. Nancy, affectionately known as “Nancy Pants”, set a goal when she was first diagnosed with cancer. It was to see all of her children graduate from college. Nancy Pants did just that as well as witnessed her son, John, marry his wife Maura Meyers last month. Unbeknownst to most, Nancy was an exceptional athlete and student. Her claim to fame is holding two national swimming records, and retiring at the age of 12! She was quite a nurse, too. Her colleagues from her working days continue to be among her best friends. Nancy Pants had a great laugh, was engaging, and was never lost in the kitchen. She had a funny way of always pronouncing people’s names wrong and had no sense of direction. However, she was as patient as can be, always ready with a hug or some of your favorite food! You only had to meet her once to really feel like you knew her. She was the ultimate soccer mom and party hostess. During the 8+ years that Nancy was battling pancreatic cancer, she was proud of the support she could offer to others. With the help of many friends, she baked rum cakes throughout the holiday season in order to support Pancreatic Cancer Research. She also was the primary force behind Pants Off Racing (“POR”). POR was established to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer and help the families that are fighting this battle, just like Nancy. A reception for friends will be held at Sylvania Country Club on Thursday, March 12th. from 5-8 pm. The memorial service will be held on Saturday March 14th. at Corpus Christi University Parish at 2pm followed by her Annual Nancy Pants Party. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to “Pants Off Racing” at 8927 Royal Oak Drive, Holland, Ohio 43528. As Nancy Pants would say, “heaven’s going to be a riot”!

Nancy J. Amato

July 11, 1952 - March 8, 2015