Nancy Pelkola, 80, of Spearfish, SD passed away peacefully on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Rolling Hills Healthcare in Belle Fouche.

Nancy was born on October 18, 1945, in Sioux Falls, SD the second child to Charles and Marion Van De Walle. She grew up in Sioux Falls and attended Washington Senior High School. She was an avid athlete, and competed in gymnastics, swimming, and diving. She graduated with a B.S. from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN in 1967, competing in the college diving and synchronized swimming programs. After graduation, she moved to the Chicago area where she taught physical education in Highland Park.

While teaching, she met Terrence Pelkola, an electrical engineer from Chicago. They married in 1971 and had two daughters: Christine and Alissa. Due to Terry’s work, they briefly lived in Wisconsin and Washington state before returning to the Chicago area.

Nancy was a homemaker for years while the kids were growing up, before returning to work as a Special Education teaching assistant. She was a prolific crafter, creating everything from quilts and afghans to cross stitch and hardanger holiday decor, often joining local craft fairs during the holidays.

Nancy and Terry moved to the Black Hills after retirement, building their long-planned retirement home in Eagle Ridge. She is survived by her husband, Terry, and her daughters Christine (Randy) of Idaho Falls, ID and Alissa of Washington, DC, and nephews David and Michael Van De Walle. She was preceded in death by her parents and older brother, John Van de Walle, of Sioux Falls.

A memorial service was held at Isburg Funeral Home in Spearfish on Monday, September 21st. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Western Hills Humane Society in Spearfish.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel & Isburg Crematory of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at https://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com/?fh_id=13327