In Loving Memory of Nan Kaiser

1928–2025

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Nan Kaiser, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of October 10, surrounded by her loving family. Her life was one of creativity, friendship, and quiet strength — grounded in love for her family and the community she built around her.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Nan earned her teaching degree from Milwaukee State Teacher's College. During her senior year, she met Charles, and together they embarked on a lifelong adventure—beginning in Hawaii, where Charles taught at the Pearl Harbor Naval Base and Nan learned to hula dance. Nan and Charles moved to Tucson in 1952, beginning what would become a rich and joyful chapter of their lives together in the desert they came to call home. Nan taught kindergarten for several years before stepping away from the classroom to raise her wonderful sons, Mark and John.

In a testament to her boundless heart, Nan and Charles expanded their family when they adopted Paul and Mary— starting the adventure of parenting all over again.

Once the younger children were in school, Nan’s creative spirit flourished. Alongside her dear friend Evelyn, she founded a thriving craft business that brought charm and whimsy to countless homes. From macramé pieces to birds and owls nestled in saguaro boots — and later, her beloved mosaic turtles — Nan’s artistry reflected her joy for life and her deep appreciation for the desert’s natural beauty. In the 1990s, Charles joined the creative fun, crafting beautiful lamps from native mesquite wood. Even after Charles’s passing in 2001, Nan and Evelyn continued creating and selling their beloved mosaic turtles for many years, each piece reflecting their enduring friendship and sense of fun.

Nan also found great joy and connection in volunteering and especially in her bridge group, affectionately known as The Grand Slam Partners. Since the 1960s, this remarkable circle of friends met weekly, sharing not just games but laughter, camaraderie, and decades of stories. Together they even published a recipe book featuring each member’s favorite dishes — a collection that became a treasured keepsake for their families. Many of those recipes are still in regular rotation today.

Nan’s life was full and deeply connected to family. She is survived by her children Mark (Roxann), John (Patrice), Paul (Mary Lynn), and Mary; cherished grandchildren Nick (Ashley), Brianna (Kim), Alanah, Jack and Matt; and great-grandchildren who brought her endless pride and joy.

Our family wants to extend our deepest gratitude to the care team at Mountain Park and the Aegis hospice team. You cared for her with such dignity, warmth, and respect. Please know how much your work meant to our family. 

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