Nancy Jean Kalass Autio, 87, of Eden Prairie, passed away on June 4, 2022. Born July 22, 1934, in Zumbrota, Minn., Nancy left a mark on all who were blessed to know her.
Nancy graduated from Zumbrota High School in 1952 and moved to Minneapolis, where she met the love of her life, John. Nancy and John were married on November 10, 1956, and started their family before settling in Eden Prairie.
Nancy began her career with the Eden Prairie School District in 1972, much to her kids’ dismay, as this allowed her to keep tabs on them throughout their school-aged shenanigans.
Nancy was a proud member of many local organizations, including the Eden Prairie Lioness Lions and the Red Hat Society. She was also a long-time member and devoted volunteer at Prairie Community Church.
Above all, Nancy cherished family. She also loved travel, sewing, gardening, entertaining, a good glass of wine, making new friends, and always laughing.
Nancy is preceded in death by her husband John, parents Dorothy and Harry Kalass, and brother Bob (Pat) Kalass.
She is survived by daughters Wendy Autio, Susan (Mitch) Lien and son David (Jenny) Autio. She was surrounded in love by her grandkids – Amy (Jeremy), Daniel (Rachel), Austin, Megan, Sara, Joy, Rachel, many cousins, nieces and nephews, and dear friends.
Nancy joined John in heaven on what would have been his 95th birthday; we are confident they’re celebrating together again!
Services will be held on Saturday, June 25, at Prairie Community Church, 9145 Eden Prairie Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55347. Visitation will start at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 10:30 a.m. and light refreshments.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Prairie Community Church. Nancy’s family invites you to join us in wearing her favorite color yellow, or your own favorite color at the service to celebrate her colorful personality and life.