Nancy Ellen Ulrich, age 83, passed away peacefully on the evening of September 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.
Born on January 11, 1943, Nancy lived a life defined by kindness, compassion, and a genuine love for others. Family and friends were always at the center of her life.  She had a remarkable ability to make people feel loved and cared for.  Her warmth extended not only to her family and friends but also to animals and to those in need.
Nancy shared 26 years of marriage with her loving husband, Jim Kienlen. Together they built a life filled with family, friendship, and many wonderful memories.
She is lovingly remembered by her son, Jeff (Rebecca) Ulrich and grandchildren, Justin and Olivia. She is also lovingly remembered by Jim’s son, Chris (Nicole) Kienlen and grandchildren, Cole (Kristen), Taylor (Kitt) and Kennedy as well as Jim’s daughter, Kari (J) and grandchildren, Haven and Seren.  Jim and Nancy were also blessed with great grandchildren Logan, Haylee and Gracie.  She is also survived by her brother Milt (Barb) and his children Keith (Karen) and Cindi (Mike) as well as her sister-in-law Vicky and her daughter Kristen.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Martha Miller, Stepmother Stella Miller, brother Dave Miller, niece Kendra Groenhout and nephew Brion Miller.  She is also preceded in death by Jim’s parents Roy and Mable Kienlen and their son Bob Kienlen.
For most of her professional career, Nancy worked as a paralegal with Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge. Beyond her career, she volunteered with hospice, animal shelters, and the Godwin Golden G’s, reflecting the compassion that was such a natural part of who she was.
She was incredibly kind and loving to everyone she met.  She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and generosity. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Funeral services will be held at 11 am Friday, September 25 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, with Rev. Christopher Meehan officiating.  Relatives and friends may meet the family from 6-8 pm on Thursday, September 24, at the funeral home and on Friday, one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Godwin Golden G scholarship or the West Michigan Humane Society would be an honor to Nancy.