Nancy Marie (Kruse) Kiwus, 81, of Blacksburg, Va.

Nancy Marie (Kruse) Kiwus passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016, at the Warm Hearth Village in Blacksburg, Va. She was 81 years old.

Nancy was born in Scotia, N.Y., on Nov. 9, 1934, to Harvey and Jeannette Kruse. Nancy married Frank R. Kiwus on Oct. 8, 1960. She was his “Sweetheart of Sigma Chi.” They were married for 52 years until his death on Feb. 2, 2013.

She was a dependable and well-liked member of the early Trustco banking team for many years. It was a job she enjoyed and executed well. Nancy has been credited with starting and establishing the first food pantry in Schenectady, associated with the First United Methodist Church. She loved outreach and the thought of helping others less fortunate than herself and often gave generously.

Nancy and Frank retired to Lancaster, Pa., and enjoyed the beauty and historical culture of the area. Nancy was an avid antique collector and enjoyed renovation and restoration. She was a successful real estate agent, and her knack for decorating was appreciated by many family and friends. Nancy and Frank were flipping homes long before it became popular. She was very proud of her sons and their patriotism and service to our country, and her daughter for her career supporting others through social work.

Nancy leaves behind three children, Jody (Kiwus) Gil, Christopher Harvey Kiwus and his wife Jennifer, and Jon Paul Kiwus and his wife Wendy. She is also survived

by seven grandchildren, Zachary Gil, Nicole Kiwus, Sam Kiwus, Alex Kiwus, James Petersen, Jack Petersen, and 1st Lt. Grant Petersen.

The family would like to thank the staff at Warm Hearth Village and Medi Home Hospice for their care and support during this difficult time. We are thankful she is at peace and with her beloved Frank.

A celebration of life and interment will occur at Evergreen Memorial Park in Albany, N.Y., at a later date.

Arrangements are with Horne Funeral Home & Crematory, Christiansburg, Va., (540) 382-2612.