Nancy Leilani Oliveira passed away November 10, 2017 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT after only knowing for a few days that she had pancreatic cancer.
Nancy was born February 28, 1977 in Bellingham, WA to George and Dorothy (White) Oliveira. She graduated from Assumption School and Bellingham High School, both in Bellingham, WA. She held a Bachelor’s Degree from Carroll College in Helena and a Master’s Degree from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO. She taught in the Fort Collins Schools for 10 years and moved back to Helena in 2009. At the time of her death, she was working at Helena High School.
Nancy was a lifelong reader with many interests. Helping her students learn was of most importance to her. She was an avid Seattle Seahawks fan, and the last evening of her life was spent in her hospital room with her parents and brother, Chris, watching the Seahawks win – a family activity for many decades. The next morning her nieces Hayden and Hattie visited her, colored with her and read stories to her.
She loved her dogs and cats and treated them like family. Her dog Tate survives her.
She is survived by her parents George and Dorothy, brother Christopher K. Oliveira (Priscilla Ellis), nieces Hayden and Hattie Oliveira and sister-in-law Jilyn Chandler, all of Helena. Her aunt is Alice L. White of Sheridan, WY. Uncles are John R. Oliveira Jr of Papaikou, HI and William P. White of Ranchester, WY. She is survived by many cousins in Wyoming, Hawaii, California, Colorado, New York and Italy. Nancy also left behind many wonderful friends.
She is preceded in death by her grandparents Nancy and Melvin White and Mary and John Oliveira, her uncles Stanley E. Oliveira and Claude H. White and aunt Mary Lou Arco.
Viewing will be at 1:00 p.m. with a funeral liturgy for Nancy to begin at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 North Montana Avenue, Helena. A reception will follow at the funeral home.
The family will have a private burial at a later date.
Nancy’s family will be establishing an educational fund in the Helena School District in her memory. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the educational fund or the Lewis and Clark Humane Society, PO Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604.
Service Schedule
Viewing
1:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m.
Thursday November 16, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena , Montana 59602
Funeral Liturgy
3:00 p.m.
Thursday November 16, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena , Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Thursday November 16, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Viewing
1:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m.
Thursday November 16, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena , Montana 59602
Funeral Liturgy
3:00 p.m.
Thursday November 16, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena , Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Service
Thursday November 16, 2017
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
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Colleen Benton says
Nancy will be missed. First met her at Carroll and have gotten to know her again at HHS … Her smile was infectious from day one and that never changed! My thoughts and prayers to all of her loved ones.
Amy Niño de Rivera says
Dear Dorothy and family,
We are truly sorry to hear of the passing of your daughter Nancy and we share with your family your deep pain, words can’t even begin to express our sorrow. The loss of a loved one is always very painful, we can’t even begin to imagen yours, may time give your family strength and resignation to remember every moment that was shared, with love and joy. Please accept our sincere condolences, your family is in our prayers.
Love,
Erick, Amy and family
Kyla E Hanson says
Nancy radiated love daily to her students and colleagues at Fort Collins High School. Ancy, as my then 3-year-old would lovingly call her created legacies that still stand at FCHS. She brought a Freshman Orientation program to FCHS called LINK that connects Freshman to mentors to help them feel welcomed and acceptance. We still use her model for this program because it’s good, like her.
She made our school better; she made her students better; she made me better. I am so grateful for her and think of her often. I’m very sad to hear of her passing.
Kyla Hanson
Kelly Waltz says
Nancy had become such an important part of my son’s life. They first met when she became his mentor at learning RX. We later sought her out to privately tutor Jayden. She had a way of connecting and communicating with him. She made learning so much easier. We will miss her so very much.
Mark E Eversole says
I am so sorry to hear the news of Ms. O’s passing. Nancy was an outstanding teacher at Fort Collins High School. She had the ability to connect students with the curriculum and learning. Her “can do” personality was infectious with those who came in contact with her. Loved her smile and personality. Thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jack McMullen says
Dorothy, George and family,
Haven’t seen you in many years, but I could hardly believe what I was hearing from Lisa today. I can’t even imagine the loss that you must be feeling. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
Jesse Morrill says
Nancy O was an inspiring leader at Fort Collins High School! She always went the extra mile for kids and co-workers. I knew her during my first years working as a high school counselor, and she modeled for me what it meant to truly invest in kids lives and to build relationships from the heart. I am so sad to hear of her passing- she truly made a positive impact in her communities!
Jesse Morrill
Rod Lucero says
I had the privilege of working with Nancy for most of the time she was at Fort Collins High School. Her infectious smile, deliberate way in making every child feel valued, her laugh, her compassion for children, and for animals, have…well…simply said, she made a difference in my life. I know she made a difference for countless other colleagues and students as well. My wish is that every teacher strives to be Ms. O. and that every child feels the love and compassion of a consummate professional that “leaves everything she had in the classroom”. God Speed, Nancy. Please know how much you were loved and beloved!!
Chris & Dorothy Goldsmith says
Our family has known Nancy since the day she was born in Bellingham WA. Our families took annual Labor Day camping trips to Birch Bay or Silver lake. Thankful for those memories. We also spent many holidays together as well. Nancy was the sweetest, most caring young lady. She was passionate about her students, family and about life in general. We saw her in September while visiting her parents. She was the Nancy we had always known, funny, caring and loving. No hint of illness. We will be forever greatful for that time. Nancy, you were the best daughter, Aunt and sister. You were loved so much and we will never forget the impact you had on our lives. You will forever be in our hearts and memories.
Barb Kehl says
May you have memories to turn to for comfort,
friends to turn to for support….and hope and strength
to help ease your sadness at this difficult time.
Thinking of you
Tom & Sheila Martin says
We are so sad to learn Ms.O passed away. As a parent I really appreciated her special gift — motivating and communicating with high school students :] She easily connected with both our kids, Evan and Emma– she made a difference in their lives. She will be missed!
Aubrey says
I had her as one of my teachers in high school and she was the first one to make history exciting for me. She was always so positive, fun, and such a high-spirited person. I’m back in school now to become a history teacher as well, and I hope to continue to inspire future students the way she inspired me.
Sue Robinson says
I had the privilege of getting to know Nancy and her family when I was a teacher and she was a student at Assumption School in Bellingham. She always had the warmest smile and sweetest personality and I can only imagine what a fantastic teacher she became. Dorothy and George I can’t even begin to imagine the heartache and pain you are feeling at this time. My heart goes out to both of you and Chris and I hope that your wonderful memories of Nancy help to heal you in time. Know that she brought such a light into this world for the brief time she was here.
Elaine Holmes says
To the family and friends of Nancy,
I had the honor and pleasure of working alongside Nancy for her entire career in social studies department at Fort Collins High School. She was a wonderful person and friend. My beloved son, Nick was in her classroom and often spoke of her kindness as his teacher. I had the honor of traveling with her to Europe, being a workout partner and being in contact with her after she left Fort Collins. She was a smart and passionate educator. I’m deeply saddened to hear of her passing. Nancy and I remain Facebook friends and she liked every post I made about Fort Collins high school even as recently as last week. I’m saying prayers for all of you. Sincerely, Elaine Holmes
Jordan Marks says
I remember when I first met Ms.Oliveira at Helena High when I was an Senior there she always help me with my English and Math school work I am so sad that she passed away I will always remember her and now she’s in a better place Rest In Peace Ms.Oliveira
Melissa Matz says
Nancy was my cooperating teacher at FCHS. Her reality was my dream. I’m rocked learning that someone that had such a skill at living can so quickly pass away. Cancer sucks.
Thank you, Nancy. You made the world better and we’ll be missing you.
Chris Olsen says
Dorothy, George, and Family,
I am so very sorry to learn of Nancy’s passing. Words do not suffice so please give Tate a huge hug.
The Van Kolken family says
Dear Dorothy, George, Chris and family
We were shocked and saddened to hear about Nancy, and send our love and deepest sympathy. We have such fond memories of Nancy’s Assumption days, in her plaid uniform, a happy and popular girl with a ready smile. She will be missed by all whose lives she touched. No words can ease the pain and grief you feel. We are so 9sorry.
Grace Dvorak says
Dear Dorothy, George, Chris and family,
So sorry for your loss, our hearts and prayers go out to you. I have many fond memories of your family from our time at Assumption.
Katrina Peters Brown says
To Ms. O’s friends and family-
Some of my favorite memories at FCHS were in the two years I spent in Ms. O’s history class and as her student aide. Her kindness and compassion for her students made her by far one of the most influential teachers I had in high school. She made the classroom come alive, and history has always been one of my favorite subjects thanks to her. Every time I think about changing careers, I think about teaching history because of the example Ms. O was to me. I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Sending lots of love.
Dana Koon says
She was a soft sweet soul with an infectious smile. I gave her a hug the first time I met her and felt her warmth radiate. Lovelie soul gone too quick. Sending you all love as this dramatically impacts your life. Xoxox
Katie Lewis says
Ms. O was one of the best teachers I ever had. I had her for history back in 2006-2007 at FCHS. I don’t ever remember seeing her without an infectious smile on her face. She could light up a whole room and always lifted my spirits, even in bad days. I always looked forward to her class. I will miss her so much. My thoughts are with her family.
Tom Myers says
Nancy was an amazing human being who never seemed to have a bad. I enjoyed every minute I worked with her at Fort Collins High. She had the most positive attitude and that attitude helped so many kids she came into contact with throughout her time at FCHS. Ms. O was a beautiful person who will be missed by so many. Her time on this earth will not be forgotten by the many people who had the pleasure to come into contact with her. I will miss her and think of her often.
Dave and Deb Klein says
Our thoughts and prayers are with Nancy’s family. She was such a lovely person and made such a positive difference in the lives of many students and staff at HHS.
Al and Ev Race says
George and Dorthy,
Our thoughts and feelings are with you over your loss of your daughter Nancy. Take care, both of you.
Naomi Rennerfeldt says
She was an amazing and loving young lady. Had such a glow that warmed the hearts of everyone around her. She will definitely and sadly be missed at HHS. My deepest sympathy, sincerest condolences and prayers to Nancy’s family, friends and loved ones. May God bless all of you and may you be comforted in His loving arms at this difficult time
.
Nicole (LeVeck) Seltzer says
Oh Nancy,
I am saddened to hear of your passing. I can see your smile like it was yesterday. I remember sitting at lunch, eating, laughing and talking. You are missed by so many. You were the sweetest soul. Thanks for being my friend back then.
Alayna Shaw says
I was fortunate enough to have Nancy as a teacher at my time at Fort Collins High School. I was in student council and she was an incredible role model and mentor for me and my classmates. She always knew how to make us laugh and always had our back. She truly had a gift for bringing joy to those around her. I will miss her, as will so many other people that have had the opportunity to get to know the amazing person that she was.
Jordan Coons-Peterson says
She was an amazing person. Straight up. So kind and funny, she was one of my teachers that I learned a lot from. My favorite ever quote which i still repeat all the time is “Thursday is my favorite day because that means tomorrow is Friday!” From learning about stock markets and the Starbucks beginning, from learning about the movie Good Morning Vietnam, and changing to the stupid late start Wednesday, she was an individual i will always cherish and remember. It was much too soon for her time to come.
Steve and Chris Mura says
Our prayers ate with you Dorothy, George and Chris. Words cannot express how deeply saddened wecare about your loss
Nancy was a fun loving , bright girl. She has wonderful.parents and a great brother. We grieve with you on your loss
Lynne Skerry says
Dorothy, my heart just aches for you and your family at this sad time. I fondly remember our many “mom” chats, and the warmth and pride with which you spoke of your children. I’m so sorry for this sudden, unexpected loss, and send you all my warmest wishes for healing and peaceful hearts.
Sumner Sharpe says
The Last Chance Audubon Society is saddened by the loss of a teacher and counselor committed to HHS students and their futures. Several years ago, we established a scholarship for high school seniors interested in pursuing a college education related to conservation; and Nancy made sure HHS seniors were aware of the scholarship. Our condolences to her family, friends, fellow teachers and staff at HHs, and to the many students whose life she touched.
Mike & Kathy Kettman says
Dear Dorothy, George, Chris and family,
We were so sad to read about Nancy’s passing. It has been so many years since we have seen your family but we will always remember Nsncy’s sweet smile and knew she would grow up to be a special person. Our prays are with you as you face this sad and difficult time.
With love,
Mike & Kathy Kettman
Judy Seymour says
Just don’t know how to express my thoughts right now. My heart goes out to each of you, Dorothy. Reading some of the messages, I can tell Nancy was much like you, caring and dedicated to children with a passion for teaching. May all your wonderful memories bring you some comfort and help you thru this difficult time. Your family left Bellingham a long time ago and are still missed
Susan Roland says
Dear Dorothy, George, Chris, and family,
Words cannot express what sadness you are experiencing. May the wonderful memories you have of Nancy give you peace, love and joy. I am grateful for the gifts that Nancy shared with all of us throughout her love.
Love and Peace to you and the family,
Susan Roland
Paul and Karen Hoffman says
Dear George, Dorothy, Chris and Family
We are so sad to hear of Nancy’s passing. She was one of the sweetest young girls at Assumption. Quite and always with such a happy smile which I see she still had as an adult. It is heart breaking to loose someone at such a young age. She will live in the hearts of many.
God’s Peace and our love be with you always,
Paul and Karen Hoffman