“Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because dawn has come.” Nancy Hollensteiner is nothing short of iconic, demonstrating to all the power of faith and positivity. She passed away the night of January 24th, but her loving spirit lives on inspiring us every day. Nancy was one of 10 children, and family was her primary compass all throughout her life. She was driven from an early age and was deeply motivated to help others. She met the love of her life, Mark Hollensteiner, in the majestic park of Canaima, the home of Angel Falls. This dream come true led her to leave her beloved homeland of Venezuela to begin a new chapter in the United States with Mark and her daughter Corina. Always looking forward to the promise of new beginnings, she embraced this change with enthusiasm and deeply loved the country she adopted as her own. Nancy was blessed with two other children, Eric and Mark. The boys were both diagnosed with autism, and she dedicated her life to ensuring they were well taken care of. She faced every challenge with valor and helped guide others through difficult times. Her comforting presence left everyone with an assurance that all would be well in the end. Nancy showed how much she cared through cooking and assured that no one would leave her home hungry. She whole-heartedly believed that food was love, and was famous for her arepas, arroz con pollo, and hallacas. She poured her heart into her garden and built a beautiful oasis in each of her homes. She courageously fought stage four breast cancer for almost 9 years, never complaining of the circumstance, but instead lived with determination to control the disease. Nancy refused to let a terrible disease limit her life. She inspired others far and near to not fear the odds, but to feel empowered to beat them. Nancy confided deeply in God’s plan and lived each day with moving optimism. When undergoing her first round of chemotherapy, she was not only determined to beat the disease, but wanted to also inspire others to put up a good fight. She asked for a portable IV drip, so she would be able to walk around and cheer other patients on. Nancy innately knew how to live life to the fullest. Even after her intense treatments, she would often begin to work in the garden the next day she underwent chemo. Nancy would never let this disease define her life. Her family considers that she did overcome this disease, as she was able to crush most expectations and left even seasoned oncologist surprised with her progress. She defied the odds and saw her children graduate, enjoyed her daughter’s wedding to the fullest, and shared precious moments with her extended family. She fought so hard for her family, her countries, and her health. She faced a serious diagnosis with incredible grace and strength. She taught us that mindset is everything, and unshakable faith moves mountains. Nancy’s ability to form friendships and fill other’s life with light was paramount to who she was. It was only fitting that on her last day, she was surrounded by visitors all day. She waited until just a few family members surrounded her, letting her know she could go in peace, before she passed away. She went home to the Father enveloped in loved, and although we miss her dearly, we’re certain she’s gained a privileged place in heaven. She is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Mark, her daughter Corina (29), her sons Eric (23), and Mark (14), son-in-law Sergio Sanchez (33), and mother-in-law Mary Hollensteiner. She also has extensive family in Venezuela, including 7 remaining brothers and sisters, who miss her dearly. She was preceded by her parents, Libia Cristina Contreras & Adalberto Melendez, sister Rosemary Contreras, and brother Miguel Rivas. We will be celebrating her life at Beck’s Tribute Center on Wednesday, January 30th from 4 PM to 8 PM. Her Funeral Mass will be at St. Mary Magdalen in Everett at 12:30 PM on Friday, February 1st, with a Committal Service at 2:30PM at Holyrood in Shoreline. Following the Graveside a reception will be held back at St. Mary Magdalen at 4PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider sharing her family’s story at Go Fund Me: Hope for the Hollensteiners. “Grief is not a sign of weakness, but the price we pay for love.”