Nettie Trenk, 85, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., passed away peacefully from complications from scleroderma on Dec. 25, 2023, surrounded by family. She was a loving and caring wife to Bruce Trenk for 65 years. Bruce and Nettie met in Madison, Wis., in 1954 and were married in June 1958. They moved to Newburgh, Ind., in 1961, where Nettie was a devoted teacher for more than 19 years. It was in Newburgh where Bruce and Nettie raised their three daughters, Sheri Skolnick (Marty), Karen Mowbray (Bryce) and Jennifer Salvino (Mark). Upon their retirement, Bruce and Nettie moved to Pagosa Springs, Colo., in 1999. She was passionate about quilting, basket weaving, live theater, reading and Mahjongg. Throughout her life, teaching career, volunteering and her hobbies, Nettie amassed an incredible number of cherished friendships. She delighted in spending time with the ones she loved, sharing stories, creating memories, and laughing with her friends and family. She was Nana to six grandchildren and Great Nana to six great-grandchildren; all 12 loved and adored her. Nettie looked forward to hosting the Fourth of July family get-together every year for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In the spirit of Nettie’s love for this annual gathering, we are planning a celebration of her life in the summer of 2024. In place of flowers, please consider donating to the National Scleroderma Foundation or the Thingamajig Theatre Company, Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts.
