It is with profound sadness that we report the passing of Nancy Sue Kiel (née Van Riper), who died peacefully on December 19, 2025, at the age of 90 within the serene surroundings of the Chelsea Retirement Community in Chelsea, Michigan.
Born on August 5, 1935, in Monroe, Michigan, Nancy grew up during a period of national recovery and resilience, qualities that became hallmarks of her own character. She entered marriage with Franklin “Frank” Sweeny in September 1953, and together they welcomed five lively sons into the world, dedicating herself fully to the demanding yet deeply rewarding role of homemaker.
Years later, after Frank’s passing, she found renewed companionship and married Stanley “Ron” Kiel in April 1993, blending families with the same open-hearted grace that defined her throughout life. Nancy spent every chapter of her ninety years in and around Chelsea, a picturesque small town celebrated for its preserved historic buildings, tree-shaded streets, and enduring community spirit.
Nancy’s greatest source of fulfillment and pride was her large, loving family, which grew over time to include daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. In her younger decades she devoted herself entirely to raising five energetic boys, managing a bustling household filled with school routines, sports practices, family meals, and the countless small moments that build lifelong bonds.
Her home was always a place of warmth, order, and unconditional acceptance, where each child felt deeply seen and cherished. Even as the years advanced and her family expanded across Michigan and Florida, Nancy remained the central figure—offering gentle guidance, quiet encouragement, and a steady presence that anchored everyone. Her capacity to love without condition and to nurture across generations created a legacy that continues to sustain her descendants long after her passing.
For many decades, Nancy was a faithful member of the First Congregational Church of Chelsea, where she found spiritual nourishment, lifelong friendships, and a sense of belonging that enriched her daily life. She participated regularly in worship services, women’s circles, and church activities, contributing her gentle spirit and sincere kindness to the life of the congregation.
The familiar rhythms of Sunday mornings—the familiar hymns, the warm greetings, the shared sense of purpose—brought her comfort and joy throughout her life. In a community where church fellowship often intertwines with everyday social life, Nancy’s consistent presence made her a beloved and recognizable figure, known for her quiet faith, her welcoming smile, and her genuine concern for others.
In her later years at the Chelsea Retirement Community, she continued to receive attentive care while remaining surrounded by the warmth of family visits, friendly staff, and fellow residents who appreciated her gracious nature. Nancy lived a life rooted in continuity, faith, and family, finding deep satisfaction in the steady rhythms of a place she never chose to leave.
Nancy is survived by her sons Ronald (Bethany) Sweeny of Dexter, Rick (Faye) Sweeny of Stockbridge, and Randy (Lisa) Sweeny of Fort White, Florida; her stepchildren Ron (Pam) Kiel of Chelsea, Jeff (Shawnda) Kiel of Indian River, Sheryl Kiel (Mike Dayton) of Mattawan, Karen (Doug) Burchett of Chelsea, and David (Carol) Kiel of Benton Harbor; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, two sisters, her husbands Franklin Sweeny and Stanley Kiel, and her sons Rod Sweeny and Ryan Sweeny. Her extended family stands as a living testament to a woman who gave everything to those she loved.