Nancy Carol Gottschlich, 74, of Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in the morning of Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2012.

She was born in Hammond, Ind. to Willis L. and Elvy M. Collins Feb. 15, 1938.

Nancy graduated from Hammond High and briefly attended a local business college. Following her marriage to Rudolf W. Gottschlich, she dedicated herself to becoming a home maker and mother, while living in Hammond and then Griffith, Ind. followed by Dublin, Ohio, Geneva, Ill., and finally Punta Gorda. Nancy was a gentle lady who made friends everywhere. After all her children had graduated from college with her enthusiastic support, she enjoyed cruises to the Caribbean, trips to California, Hawaii, and repeatedly to Europe. While in Punta Gorda, Nancy and her husband joined the Punta Gorda Sailing Club, and took part in many sailboat cruises and specialty races. She frequently expressed her appreciation for her friendly reception and support by the membership as well as her neighbors in Punta Gorda Isles.

Nancy is survived by her husband of over 53 years, Rudolf; sons Rudolf, and James; daughters, Susan, and Rosemarie with husband Jim; grandchildren, by Rosemarie, Lydia, Lauren, and Nathan; sisters, Esther, and Judy; and extended family numbers in the dozens.

Her remains were cremated Monday, Oct. 15, 2012, after a private, family only viewing the previous Saturday. A memorial service and the placement of her cremains upon the waters of Charlotte Harbor off Punta Gorda is tentatively planned for the period between Christmas and New Years, pending successful travel arrangements for her far flung family during this holiday period. Please visit kays-ponger.com to leave the family condolences, and to sign the online guestbook.

Arrangements are by Kays-Ponger and Uselton Funeral Home and Cremation Services.