Nancy Irene Luikart

Nancy Irene Luikart, born November 5, 1941, passed away in the early afternoon on March 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Nancy leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and community.

Nancy graduated from Wyandotte High School with the Class of 1959 and carried the friendships and memories from those years with her throughout her life. Those who knew Nancy knew she had a gift for maintaining connections and bringing people together, whether through reunions, or simply a heartfelt phone call or mailing a hallmark card.

Nancy married George Byron Luikart on February 27, 1960, and together they built a loving family until his tragic passing in September 1992. Years later, while helping plan a high school reunion, Nancy reconnected with Jay Winslow Deane. Through that chance encounter, she found companionship and love again. The shared 21 wonderful years together and were officially married on September 6, 2020, remaining devoted partners until Jay's passing on May 3, 2024.

Nancy lived a rich life with creativity, connection, and faith. She loved attending craft retreats, playing mahjong, and spending time Bible journaling. She had a creative spirit and a joyful energy that made any gathering brighter. Nancy loved laughter, conversation, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by the people she cared about most.

One of Nancy's greatest joys was supporting her grandchildren in their many youth sports activities. Before long, she had become "Grandma Nancy" to all the kids on the teams - always cheering loudly from the sidelines, offering encouragement, and celebrating every moment with pride. Her enthusiasm, warmth, and unmistakable spirit made her a beloved presence wherever she went.

When Mike Luikart's family moved from Kansas to Zionsville, IN in 2007, Nancy rarely let distance stand in the way of time with her grandchildren. She spent many weekends making the 509-mile trip to be present for their games, school events, and milestones. Nine years ago, she made the move to live in Zionsville herself, ensuring she would never miss a moment of the lives she loved watching grow.

Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Nancy was an active volunteer at Traders Point Christian Church, where she found purpose, fellowship, and joy in serving others. She was also a devoted member of several fraternal and service organizations, including the Rebekah Lodge, the Odd Fellows Ladies Auxiliary Fraternal Order of Eagles #87, and the Eastern Star.

Professionally, Nancy spent most of career as a bookkeeper, where she was known for her diligence, reliability, and strong work ethic. Even after retiring, she continued sharing her warmth with the community while working in the Zionsville Community Schools cafeteria, where her kindness and friendly smile brightened the days of countless students and staff.

Nancy will be remembered for her generous heart, steadfast faith, and the love she so freely gave to everyone around her. She had a lively spirit, a caring nature, and a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and loved. Her life was a testament to compassion, resilience, and the power of family.

Nancy was preceded in death by parents, Clyde and Irene Hill; her siblings, Gene Hill, Bennie Hill, Donald Hill, Wayne Hill, Fred Hill, and Mary Hill; and beloved husbands, George Luikart and Jay Deane.

She is survived by her brother, David Hill (Deborah); her sister, Betty Kimble; her sons, Byron Luikart (Gina), Michael Luikart (Barbara), jeff deane (beth), and Jim Deane (Diana); and her cherished grandchildren, Justin Luikart, Laura Edwards, Brad Luikart (Jasmine), Aaron Luikart (Savannah), Kaitlyn Luikart, and Mackenzie Luikart. She was also a proud and joyful great-grandmother to Henry Luikart and Lily Robinson. She is also survived by wonderful nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Nancy's life was full of love, laughter, faith, and devotion to those around her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

A visitation will be held from 1 PM - 3 PM on Sunday, March 15th at Aaron Ruben Nelson Mortuary, 11411 North Michigan Rd, Zionsville, IN 46077 with a service to begin at 3 PM.

Nancy will be laid to rest at Maple Hill Cemetery in Kansas City, KS.  There will not be a service or burial service held in Kansas City, KS. All are welcome to celebrate her at the visitation and funeral service in Zionsville, IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riley Children's Foundation, honoring Nancy's lifelong spirit of compassion and care.