Nancy Graham Rakowsky
SARASOTA - Nancy Graham Rakowsky, of Sarasota, Florida (and formerly of Duluth, Minnesota) died on March 3, 2024 at nearly 96 years of age.
Nancy lived a long life full of love, laughter, and - most importantly to her- family. Nancy met her husband, Donald Gene Rakowsky, while they were both students at The University of Minnesota Duluth and they were happily married for nearly 63 years until Don’s passing in 2012. Nancy and Don loved to travel, particularly on the open road, as they owned a motorhome that they would take all over the country, often bringing family along with them for the adventure.
Nancy and Don retired to New Port Richey, Florida and then later moved to Sarasota to be closer to their daughter, Donna and her husband, Brian, and their beloved grandchildren, Graham and Carolyn. Nancy was a devoted and loving grandmother (known as “Ma”) who, along with Don, would spend as much time as possible with their grandkids, including visits to Weeki Wachee to see the mermaids and trips to Disney, with overnight stays at Fort Wilderness Campground - memories that will last a lifetime.
Nancy was a strong, resilient woman, with an infectious laugh, a sweet tooth, and a green thumb (something she passed down to her grandson, Graham). She was an avid gamer, a fierce competitor, and would never turn down another round of bridge, hand and foot, bingo, or Mexican Train dominoes. She loved to swim and socialize - sometimes at the same time.
Nancy’s spirit survives in her family - her daughter, Donna and her husband, Dr. Brian Garby; grandson, Graham; granddaughter, Carolyn and her husband, Connor Haskins; great grandsons, Nolan and Bennett; brother-in-law, Robert Rakowsky; sisters-in-law, Ann Rinehart and Alice Lyon; and several nieces and nephews, including her niece, Nancy Ivarinen, with whom Nancy enjoyed a special bond. She will be greatly missed by anyone lucky enough to have known her.
Nancy’s family would like to thank the staff of Aravilla, who treated Nancy with the love, respect, and dignity that she so greatly deserved. The immediate family plans to hold a private service and celebration of life.