Nancy Carolyn Groff's Obituary
Nancy Carolyn Groff, age 85, of St. Clair, MI, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on March 20, 2026. She was born on December 10, 1940, in Lansing, MI, to the late Carl and Reva Wender. Nancy married Richard Groff on May 5, 1962. She graduated from Central Michigan University with a teaching degree and was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority.
She began her teaching career in St. Louis, MI, and later went on to teach a variety of elementary grade levels in the Greenville Public Schools. Nancy, Richard, and their children later returned to Richard’s hometown of St. Clair, MI, where they became proud owners of The Shoe Haus from 1976 to 1992. Nancy played an integral role in co-managing the store, and together they built a wonderful family business that served their community. Nancy also joyfully taught art classes at St. Mary’s Catholic School in St. Clair for many years.
Nancy was a member of the St. Clair Garden Club and St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and she was involved in many community activities. She was an avid card player, loved tennis, a great golfer, a talented home decorator who created a warm and welcoming space wherever she lived, and a passionate gardener. She loved to read, was an excellent cook, and had a special love for teaching children. Above all, she deeply admired and cherished her family. Nancy never met a stranger. Her vivacious and exuberant personality was truly infectious, and she had a way of making everyone feel like a friend.
She is survived by her loving husband, Richard; her daughters, Stephanie (Tom) Winkler and Gena (Stein) Koss; her grandchildren, Hannah (Joseph) Hartwig, Ally Winkler, Alexa, Grace, and Zachary Koss; and her great-grandchildren, Ellie and Luna Hartwig. She is also survived by her siblings, David (Lucy) Wender, Robert (Susan) Wender, and Christine Neill, as well as many nieces, nephews, and close friends. Also her beloved cat, Maggie.
Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Young Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 3:00–8:00 PM. A memorial service will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Young Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Clair Art Association, Blue Water Hospice Home, or the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL).
To leave a message of comfort visit https://www.youngcolonial.com
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