Anchorage and Homer summer resident Nancy Ruth Wrocklage, 66, died July 23, 2014. “She went home to be with her Lord after a courageous fight with cancer,” her family said.

Born on Nov. 23, 1947, in Quincy, Mass., Nancy traveled with her U.S. Navy family all over the states until she was 16. She graduated from Old Dominion College in Norfolk, Va., with a bachelor of science in elementary education, and an associate’s degree in veterinary science technology from State University of New York.

Nancy’s work with Guiding Eyes for the Blind in New York from 1969 to 1978 garnered her the distinction of being one of the first women in the country to become a guide dog trainer. Her love of dogs filled her life with great joy.

Nancy worked with Dr. James Scott at his veterinary practice when she first lived in Anchorage. She filled out her work life by joining the Library Resources Department for the Anchorage School District, retiring in 2003. An artist, writer, sister, friend, birder, knitter and animal lover, Nancy’s life was full of lovely, wonderful like-minded friends and acquaintances.

Nancy discovered “her special seacoast town” of Homer and fell in love. She lived in Homer many summers, as well as one whole year, and spent many fun-filled days tide-pooling, following baby cranes, ushering at the local theater, exercising with Strong Women and T’ai Chi, singing in the community chorus and going for walks. She enjoyed fellow birders, artists and gardeners, librarians, teachers and fishermen, Two Sisters Bakery, the Yarn Yurt and Pick ’n’ Pay, Jenny Lane Cottage and of course, Flakey the dog.

Nancy’s family wishes to say a heartfelt thank you to Katmai Oncology and the Oncology Rehab Center and to all the physicians, nurses and caregivers at Providence Alaska Medical Center. She was deeply grateful to have them as her journey partners.

Nancy is survived by her brothers, John and Alan, of Arizona, Peter and Christopher of Virginia; her sister, Judy Blooms, of Virginia; uncle, Richard Davies, of California, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Inc., 611 Granite Springs Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598.

“Nancy will be missed by all whose lives she touched,” her family said.