Obituary of Grace M. Nachtigall

Grace Kauffman Nachtigall died peacefully on June 12, 2014 at age 100 at the Oaknoll Retirement Residence, Iowa City, Iowa. She was born April 10, 1914, near Hopedale, Illinois She was the 4th of 9 children in the family of Noah and Kate Egli Kauffman. Shortly after high school she completed her nurses training practicing as an RN in many communities including Puerto Rico and 9 years (1960-1969) at the University of Iowa Hospitals first in the eye department and later with Inservice Education. She retired from her nursing career in 1977. Her dedication to her Christian faith and church ministry was paramount in her life. Because of her commitment and faith she portrayed strong values, integrity, honesty, dignity, humor, and grace (as she was rightly named). Grace is reunited with her loving husband, Wilbur Nachtigall who preceded her in death in 2003. She will join those that meant so much to her; grandson, Nick Michels; and siblings, Marion Jones; Roy, Joe, and Walt Kauffman; Rose Mason; and Gertrude Powell. Surviving family members who will have loving memories are Grace's children, John, Ramon, Rosa, and Nita; grandchildren, David, Brian and Mark Brunsma; Christopher, Michael, and Elizabeth Nachtigall; and Alicia Donovan; and 7 great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings are Edith Piper and Dan Kauffman. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 12, 10:00 AM, at the First Mennonite Church, 405 Myrtle Ave, Iowa City, Iowa, 319-338-0302. Memorials in Grace's name can be made to the Grace Nachtigall Memorial Fund and those can be sent to the Gay & Ciha Funeral Home, 2720 Muscatine Ave, Iowa City, Iowa 52240.