In Memory of Nancy Fusaro

Nancy Fusaro, a beloved educator and cherished family member, was a lifelong resident of Topeka, Kansas, where she was born on June 17, 1952 and passed away on October 1, 2025. She leaves a legacy of profound love for family, a dedication to teaching and a commitment to helping others.

Nancy graduated from Seaman High School in 1970. She advanced her education at Kansas State University, focusing on her interest in floriculture (having worked at Jackson’s Greenhouse and Stanley’s Flowers during her high school and college years). After graduation from K-State, Nancy returned home and fueled by a passion for childhood education, took the required courses to obtain a teaching certificate. Thus began her teaching career. While teaching, Nancy earned a master's degree in Early Childhood Development at Emporia State University.

For 39 years, Nancy devoted her life to nurturing the minds of young children. The last 36 of those years she was a teacher at elementary schools in the Seaman School District. Her magical classrooms sparked curiosity and imagination in her students where she instilled a love for learning, especially reading, while incorporating her artistic talents. She enriched the lives of all those she taught. Nancy’s commitment to her profession was recognized with numerous awards, including being named Teacher of the Year three times. The awards were in recognition of her exceptional ability to connect with children and inspire them to learn and grow.

Nancy had a creative spirit that extended beyond her professional life into her personal life, and included her artistic abilities, gardening, decorating, floral decor for her own home as well as for others, and even included decorating for weddings. Her creativity was apparent in everything she touched, making her home a warm and inviting space filled with beauty and comfort. She was also a remarkable cook and baker, relishing the joy of bringing family together through shared meals and memorable gatherings. Nancy was an active member of First United Methodist Church. A few of her contributions (no doubt based on her love for teaching and cooking) included serving as a Sunday school teacher and a volunteer in the kitchen preparing meals for those in need.

Family was the cornerstone of Nancy's existence. Of particular delight in later years were her grandchildren, Logan and Lennon, who she provided with a love that was both nurturing and inspiring. She cherished the moments spent with all her family. Included as part of the family is her foreign exchange student, Ji-Young Yoon. Instead of a one-year “guest”, Nancy jumped through hoops to ensure Ji could remain in the United States, complete her college education and remain a part of her American family. Nancy’s warmth and caring nature extended to all who knew her, both family and friends. She was usually the first to reach out to friends and family whenever she saw the need, embodying kindness and humility in her everyday actions.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Fusaro, grandsons, Logan and Lennon Breeding, stepdaughter, Hollie Fusaro and her siblings, Jan (Bryon) Schlosser and Mike (Beth) Moffitt. The love she shared with them and the memories they created together will forever be a testament to her profound impact on their lives. As we reflect on Nancy’s life, we remember not only her accomplishments in the field of education but also the boundless love she shared with everyone. Her spirit, dedication, and creativity will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held at a future date.