1944 — 2023
“Our Cute Mom”
Nancy Van Dyke Bates passed away peacefully, surrounded by her four children, on October 17, 2023 at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was born on December 2, 1944, in Ogden, Utah, to Robert E. and Louise Carruth VanDyke.
In 1963, Nancy graduated from Ogden High School, and remained close with her dear childhood friends, enjoying lunches and staycations with “the girls.” Nancy graduated from BYU, and began her professional teaching career in Salt Lake City. She is best known for teaching art and English at North Summit for nearly three decades. Nancy never asked for recognition, but her impact is given measure by the outpouring of love, kindness and memories from friends, colleagues and former students.
Nancy immersed herself in art. She took great delight in teaching art to children and her talents were often utilized creating scenery for plays. Nancy’s talent is showcased vividly on a wall mural she completed at the Coalville City Library in recent years. When she wasn’t teaching art for work, she was creating art for leisure; painting in her art room (her “happy place”) or knitting in the cozy comfort of her couch. Always one to find the beauty in what existed beyond the surface, she refinished old furniture and brought new life and function. Nancy enjoyed a good book and her Book Club meetings. One of her favorite outings was attending Centerpoint Legacy Theatre to watch her youngest brother, Scott, perform.
Nancy was an avid skier in her youth. She would fondly recall going to Snowbasin and being competitive enough to keep up with the boys in her group of friends. She became a skilled seamstress and used this ability sometimes to make crafts and items for her home, but mostly in service projects for others. After a life filled with working for and supporting others, Nancy spent time in retirement reminiscing with childhood pals, going on trips with friends and treating herself to an occasional milkshake.
Nancy’s proudest accomplishments revolved around the love she had for her family and the achievements of her own kids, as well as her students. She treasured her children, Becky (Troy) Johansen, Matt Bates, Jer Bates, and Sara (Chad) Toole. Nancy poured her heart and soul into guiding them to become the individuals they are today.
Nancy leaves behind her loving siblings, brothers Bob (Sharon) Van Dyke, Fred (Dixie) Van Dyke, Chris (Linda) Van Dyke, Scott (Cydney) Van Dyke, and sister Kay Large. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. Nancy’s memory will live on through her adoring grandchildren: Will, Liz, John, James, Katelyn, Hawken, Teagan, Riley, and Finley, who will miss spending time in Gramma’s kitchen while she serves them waffles with a side of more waffles.
Nancy exhibited remarkable resilience and perseverance over the past four years as she bravely faced her cancer diagnosis and treatment. She, along with her family, were so grateful for the tender care she received from Jeannette Vernon and Amiee Thiriot Davidson and her oncology team: Dr. Teresa Werner, Esther Kannapel, and Dr. Katherine Harris and others at the Huntsman Cancer Institute and most especially for the compassion shown by Dr. Mishra, Erin, Justin and Estelle at Park City Hospital.
Services in celebration of Nancy’s life and legacy will be held at the Wanship LDS Church, 30899 Old Lincoln Hwy., Wanship, Utah, with a viewing on Sunday, October 22 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. On Monday, October 23, a viewing will be held from 10:30 am to 11:15 am. Funeral services will begin at 11:30 am followed by interment at the Wanship Cemetery. A live stream of the funeral can be viewed www.walker-mortuary.com.
Nancy will be remembered as sweet and funny, always ready and willing to serve. She had a profound impact on the lives of many. Nancy’s commitment to family and education was matched by her dedication to her faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and she was quick to acknowledge the many ways she had been blessed. She never complained about her life challenges, always taking on whatever she faced with positivity and grace. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished.
In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that donations be submitted in Nancy’s name to North Summit School District. bit.ly/NSnancybates
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