Nancy Jeanne Dolphin's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Nancy Jeanne Dolphin (Axtell)
Nancy Jeanne Dolphin (Axtell) was born on May 17, 1944, in San Diego, CA, to Mary Ellen and George Axtell. She passed away peacefully on February 2, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. Nancy lived a vibrant and joyful life, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.
Nancy was a woman who embraced life with enthusiasm and a contagious spirit. She radiated beauty, loved to dance, and had an insatiable appetite for fun. Her adventurous soul led her to explore the world, and she cherished the memories made during her travels. Notably, Nancy spent a period of her life living on a boat, a testament to her love for the water and a life well-lived.
In addition to working for Campbell’s Soup and Kraft Foods early in her career, she was a very successful and respected Mortgage Loan Officer for over 20 years. At one point, she had her own Mortgage Company, Axtell and Associates. This was during a time when women really had to fight to become successful in business, but she overcame all these obstacles. She was also President of the San Diego Woman’s Club and was extremely proud of that. She had a kind and giving heart and has helped so many people over the years.
She was a single mom to Heidi and Scott. In her determined and creative way, she made sure they were taken care of. This led to many crazy adventures for the three of them and a strong and loving bond that was never broken. Even in the later days of her illness, she did not lose her playful and loving personality and continued to make them laugh and create fun memories. She was a one-of-a-kind Mom!
Her true joy in life came from her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nana. Her love for them knew no bounds, and she delighted in spoiling them with unforgettable experiences. Nancy often took her beloved grandchildren to the yacht club, where they swam and ordered sodas, creating lasting memories by the water. High tea outings, limo rides to see plays, and even swimming with dolphins were just a few of the many ways she expressed her love and created magical moments for her family.
Nancy is survived by her brother Bruce Axtell, her daughter Heidi (Matt) Doyle, and son Scott (Ana) Wetzel. She will be fondly remembered by her six grandchildren, Chole (Tara) Premo, Erika (Steven) Efada, Michelle (Simon Levy) Doyle, Alex (Shirley) Doyle, Shea (Jack) Durall, and Chad Wetzel, as well as her four great-grandchildren, Jackson Premo, Julia Levy, Theodore Doyle, and Portia Efada. She was predeceased by her husband of 16 years, Joseph Dolphin.
As we bid farewell to Nancy, we take solace in the knowledge that she is now at peace, free from the burdens of dementia. We envision her looking down on us with a margarita in hand, dancing the night away with angels in the heavens above. May her spirit continue to inspire us to live life to the fullest, just as she did. Nancy Jeanne Dolphin will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love and joy she brought to the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.
There will be a private service this summer to scatter her ashes in the ocean that she loved so much. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association so they can continue their fight to end this cruel disease.
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