Nancy Kay Kurle was born on January 31, 1951, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Robert and Maggie Welch. She passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and kindness.

From an early age, Nancy kept her parents on their toes. Whether she was putting rocks in her ears or jumping off a roof, she was always finding new adventures. She often laughed while recalling how, when her mom pulled the wooden spoon from the kitchen drawer, it was time to run.

In 1968, while cruising around Bismarck with her girlfriends, Nancy met a blond-haired, blue-eyed young man who would become the love of her life, Jim Kurle. Not long afterward, while the two were out checking cows in the pasture, Jim proposed, and Nancy happily said yes. Together they built a beautiful life and shared a love story that spanned 57 years.

Nancy once told Jim that she dreamed of living by a lake, and Jim made that dream come true. She never tired of coming over the hill and seeing the beauty of the water below. It brought her peace and joy throughout her life. Nancy went from a city girl to a true farmer/rancher from plowing soil in the fields to vaccinating cattle. She loved the farm/ranch life.

In 1970, Nancy and Jim welcomed their daughter, Chris. The two became inseparable while living on the farm, sharing adventures that included riding ponies, taking supper out to the fields for Jim, and enjoying the quiet beauty of farm life. In 1982, their family was blessed once again with the arrival of their son, Michael. Together they created countless memories, from getting stuck in snowbanks with the red van to swimming in Bismarck and spending cherished time at Grandma and Grandpa Welch's house to cheering on Michael during his basketball games.

Nancy had a special gift for teaching and mentoring young people. She faithfully served as a Sunday school teacher, youth group leader, and Bible study mentor. Her ability to connect with youth led to lifelong friendships and relationships that continued well into their adult years. Her greatest passion was her faith in the Lord, and she never hesitated to share it with others. Her favorite Bible verse was John 3:16, often saying that the entire message of the Bible could be summed up in those simple and powerful words. 

Nancy also had a deep love for animals. She enjoyed naming new born calves each Spring and in 2022, she took in a two-week-old barn kitten that had lost its mother. Determined to save him, she fed the tiny kitten with an eyedropper around the clock. She named him Yodi and took great pride in helping him thrive. Yodi brought immense joy and companionship into her life.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Jim Kurle; her daughter, Chris (Dan Baumiller); and her son, Michael. Nancy often referred to Dan as her second son and frequently said what a blessing he is to the family. She is also survived by her sister, Helen Welch; her brother-in-law, Gene Kurle; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Maggie Welch, fur babies Brady and Jack, and her brother, Ken Welch.

Nancy will be remembered for her unwavering faith, compassionate heart, devotion to her family, and her ability to make everyone feel loved and welcome. Through her kindness, encouragement, and steadfast trust in the Lord, she touched countless lives and leaves behind memories that will be cherished forever.

A funeral service will begin at 2 p.m., on Monday, August 31, at Eastgate Funeral Service, 3117 E Century Ave, with a visitation starting one hour prior.

Burial will be held at the Alta Community Cemetery, Wilton, ND.

In lieu of memorials and flowers please make a donation to Furry Friends Rockin’ Rescue as that was a charity and cause near and dear to her heart.

Thank you, Mom, for all you did and for the many memories you leave us with. As you always told us, "This isn't goodbye; it's simply see you later." We will love you always, and we will see you again.