Mrs. Nancy Belle Grant, age 75, of Pentwater, passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 20, 2012. She was born December 20, 1936, to Lester and Viva Squire in Hart, Oceana County, MI. Nancy married Brian F. Grant on November 11, 1967 in Ludington. They were married nearly forty years before his death on April 2, 2007. She was a member of the Pentwater Historical Society, the Centenary United Methodist Church and St. Vincent Catholic Church.

Nancy is survived by her children, Ryan (Kristina) Grant of Orlando, Florida and Bonnie Grant of Eugene, Oregon; sisters, Norma (Carl) Ingalls of Twin Lake, Michigan and Barbara Morell of Ludington, Michigan; and brother, Donn (Mary) Squire of California. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a brother, Milo Squire.

Nancy was employed by Burroughs Corp. before dedicating her life to family. Growing up in Pentwater, she developed a love for horses and was especially fond of her Shetland pony, "Silver," which she often rode bareback. Nancy enjoyed ice skating on the Frog Pond behind Old Baldy, played basketball and softball and was an avid deer hunter. She was a golfer, participated in aerobics and was a member of the local bowling league.

Nancy was best known for her passion for local history and was considered by many to be "The Pentwater Historian." She actively contributed to the Pentwater Historical Society through her exhaustive research into the stories and facts of houses, people and events of the Village. Nancy willingly shared her knowledge, especially when given the opportunity to work with local youth. Her findings helped furnish articles, brochures, placards and presentations and she frequently advised newspapers and magazines, providing a unique, personal perspective on the rich history of the area. Nancy's tireless curiosity and her deep knowledge of obscure and interesting facts was a priceless asset to the community. Before her passing, her draft of the Society's mission statement was chosen for print, for which she was particularly proud.

A graveside service for Mrs. Grant will be held at North Weare Cemetery on Saturday, July 7 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Gary Bekofske officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions in her name to the Pentwater Historical Society, Centenary United Methodist Church or St. Vincent Catholic Church.