Nancy Mcneive

Nancy Elisabeth McNeive passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 18, in Freeport, Il., after a brief illness. Born on July 2, 1940 in Minneapolis, MN to Edward C. and Elisabeth (Heeter) Vorlander, she attended Central High School in London, England before attending Macalester College in St. Paul, MN. Nancy moved to Freeport in 1961 and was employed at Economy Fire and Casualty Co. and at Kelly Springfield Tire Co., during the plant's inception. It was at Kelly Springfield where she would meet the love of her life, Robert L. McNeive, and the two would join hands in a loving marriage at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on Sept. 5, 1964. While raising their family, Nancy also worked at the Freeport YWCA, then as a Real Estate Agent and also as the General Manager of her pride and joy, "The House of the Unicorn" restaurant in Freeport. Additionally, she was very active as a volunteer in the community, serving as President of Winneshiek Players, Amity Society and the Freeport Hospital Auxiliary. She also served on the Board of Directors and sang with the Freeport Choral Society. Her main interest, outside of her children and grandchildren, was music and musical theatre. She acted, directed and produced many musicals at Winneshiek Theatre as well as acting at Highland Community College. She was also a former recipient of the Lucy Fuller Community Service Volunteer award, as a Woman of Excellence. Nancy was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where she served as an Elder, Deacon and member of the church choir for 48 years. Survived by three children, Eileen Bierk of New Ulm, MN., Erin Johnson (Eric) of Hinsdale, Ill., and Michael (Maggie) of Oak Creek, Wi. She was a special grandma ("momo") to Caitlin Bierk, Shannon, Meghan and Hayley Johnson and Ryan, Allison, Danny and Molly McNeive. She is also survived by her loving sister, Carol Edblom of Shoreview, MN. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and so many very special friends. Nancy is preceded in death by her loving husband and by her parents. A celebration of Nancy's life will be held on Saturday at United Presbyterian Church of Freeport beginning 11 a.m. In lieu of a visitation the family will also be available at 10 a.m to welcome visitors. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in her name. Contributions can be made directly to the Nancy McNeive Memorial Fund c/o State Bank of Freeport,1718 S Dirck Dr, Freeport, Il. 61032 Visit the guestbook at www.burketubbs.com