Nancy Ellen Montelbano, 84, of Burr Ridge, Illinois, passed away on October 1, 2025.  She was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 20, 1941 to Madeline and George Montelbano.  Nancy embarked on a long and illustrious career in employee benefits and insurance.  She was known for her humor and her candor and was a respected confidante to many throughout the years.  Nancy was an accomplished business woman and a trusted friend throughout the years, and was awarded Woman of the Year in 1984 by the American Business Woman’s Association (ABWA). Nancy loved cooking and generously sharing what she cooked with friends.  She loved singing in church choirs for many years.  Aptly described as a “force of nature,” Nancy will be remembered for her unwavering generosity of spirit and her easygoing and friendly personality.  She was a loyal friend and quick to make new friendships, while holding onto those she had since childhood.  In her youth, Nancy loved working as a camp counselor and was instrumental in getting camps for handicapped children.  She also has had a goal of helping children get a Christian education when the family needs some assistance.

She is survived by her brother, Bill Montelbano, her niece, Kelly Thieman, great-niece Katie Thieman, great-nephew, Ben Thieman, niece, Lauren Montelbano, nephew, Peter Montelbano, step-niece, Sarah Feiner, step-nephew, Jacob Feiner, step-niece, Theresa Feiner, her close friend and roommate for over 50 years, Loretta Forsner, her many close and dear friends from her history of many professions, her nephews, Hugh and Regan Coleman.  Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Madeline and George Montelbano.

Now at peace and with God, she will forever reside in our hearts and be greatly missed.  Always smiling and always believing, in her honor, we should all do the same.

A visitation will be held from 2 to 8pm Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 301-75^th Street, Downers Grove, Illinois.  Visitation from 9:30am followed by Funeral Service at 10:30am Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 11500 German Church Road, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527.  Procession immediately following to Fairmount Willow Hills Memorial Park, 9100 South Archer Avenue, Willow Springs for interment.  A funeral luncheon will be held following the interment in the fellowship hall at Trinity Lutheran Church, Burr Ridge.  In lieu of flowers, for those who would like to leave a lasting tribute in Nancy’s name, please make donations to Trinity Lutheran Church (address above).  Funeral home phone 630/964-6500.