Nancy Mae Vanskike
Nancy Mae (Buckman) Vanskike age 83, of Shelbyville, MO passed away Monday, March 23, 2020 at Salt River Community Care in Shelbina, MO.
Nancy was born in Shelbina, MO, January 17, 1937 to John Francis and Ruby Pearl (Hastings) Buckman. She was a graduate of the Shelbina High School’s Class of 1954. She was united in marriage to Donald “Doe” Vanskike on May 22, 1954 in Shelbina, MO.
When her children were younger, she was a stay-at-home mom and homemaker. The family moved frequently while Doe worked for Tobin Construction. The family settled in Harrisonville, MO in the 1960s where she worked as a waitress and then for Western Electric. While there she welcomed many of the children’s friends to their home and they became part of the family. Many card games was played on her kitchen table on a nightly basis where the teenagers would congregate.
In 1973, the family moved back to Shelby County. She worked at McGraw-Edison in Clarence, MO, and in the 80s to mid 90s was a familiar face in Bethel, MO as a clerk at Robertson’s Store.
Nancy enjoyed holidays such as 4th of July, Easter, Halloween and Christmas. She made costumes to wear while dropping off surprise goodies for special friends in Bethel. Long time residents of Bethel may remember her being in the local newspaper featuring a Gingerbread Village she made. Before she lost her eyesight she enjoyed quilting, crafting and cooking. She spent many hours playing board games or cards when family and friends got together.
Nancy will be missed by many. Her grandchildren each has their own special memories of their “Grandma Nancy.” Too many memories to list on paper but will be forever in their hearts.
Nancy is survived by her husband Doe and their three children;Donald E.Vanskike of Longview TX, Peggy Vanskike Helt (Ronnie) of Harrisonville, MO, and Michael Vanskike (Amy) of Shelbyville, MO, one brother; Larry Dean Buckman of Bevier, MO, six grandchildren; Ben Helt (Sarah) of Raytown, MO, Sarah McDowell (Sam) of Harrisonville, MO, Stephanie Magruder (Brent) of Smithville, MO, Dandy Vanskike, Rowdy Vanskike both of Shelbyville, MO and Mackenzie Vanskike (Adam Dodd) of Shelbyville, MO and seven great- grandchildren; Zane Helt, Brody Helt, Savannah Helt, Ava Helt, Kooper Magruder, Karter Magruder and Spencer McDowell. Also many special nieces, great- nieces and great- nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters; Helen (Buckman) Walker and Dorris (Buckman Threkeld) DePung and two brothers; Donald and Roland Buckman. She was also preceded in death by five nephews; Butch, Bill, Johnnie, Berhle and Bob.
Due to CDC guidelines, there was a graveside service at 11 a.m. Friday, March 27, 2020 at the Bethel Zion Cemetery, near Bethel, MO.
Memorials can be made to the Bethel Zion Cemetery.
