Nancy B. Leis

Nancy B. Leis, 85, passed away November 17, 2017 at Hiland Cottage in Petoskey.  She was born August 18, 1932 in Jefferson Township PA, minutes after her identical twin sister Frances.

Nancy graduated from Hunter College in New York and earned her PhD from Northwestern University in Illinois.  Nancy was a Professor of Anthropology at Central Michigan University from 1970 to 1997, specializing in African Studies.. Upon her retirement, she fulfilled her life dream of travelling the world, visiting upwards of 40 countries.  Nancy embraced life with a feisty, outgoing personality, strength and independence.  She valued intelligence, and was committed to teaching and academia.  Nancy also cherished family, especially her children and grandchildren.  She is survived by her son Mark (Cheryl) Leis of Gates, Oregon, their children Nina, Maelyn and Jaren, her daughter Rachel (Mike) Lange of Boyne City, Michigan, and their children Travis, Kevin and Josh.

She is preceded in death by her twin sister Frances, her brother Charles and her parents Frank and Mary Boric.  The family has chosen to remember her privately.  Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Little Traverse Bay, 1 Hiland Dr, Petoskey, MI  49770.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com