Nancy Lauer Frerer, 85, of Carthage, MO passed away on June 21, 2024 of natural causes. Nancy was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois, by her parents Thomas and Frances Lauer.
Nancy has been part of the Carthage community for 58 years, and the community was as important to her as she was to the community. Her role as a teacher/mentor began as developer and swim coach of the Broadview Country Club girls swim team for ten years. “Coach Housh” was a role model for countless young girls. She proceeded to serve as a fourth grade teacher for over 30 years. Her classroom management had a positive impact on vast numbers of children’s lives and earned her Carthage School District Teacher of the Year. Nancy grew up as an athlete (accomplished swimmer) before women were encouraged to do so and prioritized physical fitness to her end. She was a founding board member of the Carthage YMCA in 1993 and one of the most dedicated users of the facility for over 25 years. Nancy’s leadership and giving to others continued in her final five years as she helped and encouraged involvement with fellow residents at Oak Pointe in Carthage.
Nancy is survived by: two children Clint Housh (April) of Ridgecrest, California; Susan Slade (Cam) of Naperville, Illinois; 16 grandchildren (Ty Housh, Joshua Housh, Shane Housh, Grace Powell, Kurt Housh, Tina Housh, Faith Housh, Mercy Housh, Patience Housh, Elijah Housh, Nadya Housh, Malachi Housh, Rodney Jorgenson, Courtney Housh, Ryan Slade, Zachary Slade); 9 great grandchildren; brother Bill Lauer of Joliet, Illinois; and daughter in-law Cara Terry.
Nancy was preceded in death by her husband James Frerer; son Todd Housh; and brother Clint Lauer.
Nancy’s teaching and helping others will be greatly missed, but most certainly carried on by the masses she influenced.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation, in hopes of advancing treatment for the disease that was the only thing that could slow Nancy down.
Nancy will be interred at Park Cemetery in Carthage, Missouri.
Private family services will be next weekend.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
