Nancy Jane Hughes-Zembrowski

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Obituary

Nancy Jane Hughes - Zembrowski

March 5, 1940 – October 30, 2026

Nancy Jane Hughes-Zembrowski, 86, of Greenfield, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026.

Nancy was born on March 5, 1940, in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Thomas and Alice (Miller) Hughes, the middle of five children. She grew up in South Milwaukee, graduated from high school there in 1958, and carried with her throughout life the warmth, resilience, and down-to-earth spirit that shaped her early years.

In 1959, Nancy married Dennis Wink, and together they had two children, Kathy and Jim, who remained among the greatest joys of her life. In 1986, she earned an Associate Degree in Business from MATC, an accomplishment that reflected her determination and quiet strength. In 1992, she married Richard “Dick” Zembrowski, and together they built a life filled with companionship, laughter, and adventure. From 1987 to 2024, Nancy made her home in Downey and later Wrightwood, California, where she found beauty in the sunshine, the mountains, and the everyday pleasures of life.

Nancy had a gentle way about her that made people feel seen and heard. She was thoughtful, curious, and deeply caring, the kind of person who could sit at a kitchen table and turn an ordinary conversation into something meaningful. She loved people, and she loved knowing their stories. Time spent with Nancy often meant a long talk, a shared laugh, and the comforting feeling that nothing needed to be rushed. 

She found joy in so many things: outdoors, gardening, music, belly dancing, and traveling. She and Dick explored the United States and traveled to England, France, Austria, and Italy, making memories everywhere they went. But just as much as she loved seeing new places, Nancy delighted in life’s small and wonderful details. She collected feathers, rocks, menus, and leaves—little pieces of the world that caught her eye and meant something to her. She loved a good farmers market, Minions, California’s blue skies, VW Beetles, walks with family and friends, and heartfelt conversations around the kitchen table.

One of the clearest reflections of Nancy’s heart was the way she held on to the people she loved. She never threw away letters. She never deleted texts or emails. She saved those pieces of connection because people mattered to her. Memories mattered to her. Love mattered to her. She understood that a life is made up not only of big milestones, but of small moments, kind words, shared stories, and the simple comfort of being remembered.

Nancy was a stay-at-home mother while her children were young, giving them her time, care, and steady presence. Later, she worked in retail, including at Gimbels in Cudahy, Wisconsin, and Apple Ann’s in Wrightwood, California. Wherever she was, she brought her warmth and sincerity with her.

Above all else, Nancy cherished her family and friends. She loved deeply, and that love will remain with all who knew her. She leaves behind not only memories, but a feeling—of warmth, kindness, curiosity, and connection—that will not be forgotten.

She is survived by her children, Kathy (Randy) Popelier and Jim (Kim) Wink; her grandchildren, Joshua, Jessica, Jordan (Sidney), and Emily (Nick); her great-grandson, Daemion; her sisters, Kathleen and Mary; her brother, Thomas (Jan); her sister-in-law, Barb; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Alice Hughes; her brother, James; and her husband, Dick.

Nancy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the gift of knowing her.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 22, 2026, at noon to 3:00 PM CT in the Atrium of the Cloisters of Greenfield, the condominium building located at 6100 W. Stonehedge Dr., Milwaukee, WI.

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