Nancy (Schindler) Brucker February 27, 1944 – May 24, 2026 Holderness, New Hampshire

Nancy Brucker passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of May 24, 2026, at the lake house on Squam Lake that had been her heart's home for as long as anyone could remember. What had begun as a place of summer joy had become, in her final years, her permanent refuge — a dream fulfilled, and a fitting place to be surrounded by the family she loved.

Born in Fort Myers, Florida, to Andrew and Doris (Masterson) Schindler, Nancy grew up as the daughter of an Air Force officer — a childhood that carried her across continents and gave her an early education in adaptability. It was during one of those postings, at the age of 14, while her father was stationed in Germany, that she met the love of her life, Willis Brucker. She would spend the next 68 years by his side.

Following Willis’ graduation and commissioning from the United States Military Academy, the two were married in 1964 at West Point, New York. They built a life together rooted in love, partnership, and an unshakeable devotion to family. They welcomed two children, Katie and Willis Michael, and raised them with intention, purpose, and an abiding belief in the power of a close family.

A lifelong learner with a deep and abiding love of history, Nancy returned to school while raising her children and earned her master's degree in education from Smith College. She then gave more than two decades to teaching, touching the lives of students with the same patience and warmth she showed her own family.

In 1972, Nancy met Geri, Midge, and Mary Cay through Northampton's Newcomers program — four women brought together by circumstance who became bound by something far deeper. “The Book Club” evolved over six decades into one of the great friendships of her life, a circle of women who celebrated each other's triumphs and joyful moments, and lifted each other up through life's challenges.

Retirement brought no slowdown. Nancy served as Selectwoman in Hudson, New Hampshire, from 2012 to 2015, channeling into civic life the same sense of duty and care for community that defined her.

In her later years, she found great joy in the rhythms of life at Squam Lake — the light on the water, the pace of the seasons, the gathering of family around her. She was a devoted New England sports fan, an enthusiastic reader, and a lifelong admirer of British period dramas. Throughout it all, she moved through life with a natural elegance.

But what those who loved her will hold closest is simpler than any of that — her warmth, her grace, and the particular way she made everyone around her feel seen and cherished.

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Willis; her daughter, Katie; her son, Willis, and his wife, Melanie; four grandchildren, Trevor, Vivienne, Winter, and Forrest; and her great-grandson, Dalton. She is also survived by her sisters, Jane and Elizabeth, and Elizabeth's husband, John, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brother, Mike Schindler, and her niece, Meg Schindler.

Nancy Brucker leaves behind a family that is better for having been shaped by her, and a shining memory that will not fade.

The family will receive visitors Saturday, May 30th, 10:00am-11:30am at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 172 King Street in Boscawen. Funeral service will begin at 11:30 in the funeral home chapel. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please visit www.phaneuf.net.