It is never easy to capture the life and spirit of a loved one in words. Nancy Jeanette Cooksey-Leppek, a beloved wife, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, in the loving arms of her husband, Dan, at the age of 79. Born in Salinas and raised in Eureka, Nancy was the daughter of Bailey and Dorothy Cooksey, who preceded her in death. She is lovingly remembered by her brothers and sister: Steve Cooksey (Sharon), Tim Cooksey (Chris), Susan Cooksey Johnson (Bob) and Bailey Jr. Cooksey (Kelly). Nancy’s extended family through Dan — Sherry Leppek Dunn (Jon), Chris Leppek (Renee), Joe Leppek (Trudy) and JoAnna Leppek Ow (Bob) — were a very dear and strong part of her life. She is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, by whom her presence will be greatly missed.

Nancy and Dan met in high school in biology class. Their first date was at a basketball game at Eureka High School. They got married on St. Patrick’s Day and have been together for 64 years and married for over 58 years. They spent the early part of their lives together in Visalia, Calif., where Dan worked. Nancy was always by Dan’s side throughout that time, taking care of the household and supporting and assisting Dan. She would exclaim that it was her calling as Dan’s partner. After Dan’s retirement, they returned to Eureka.

Throughout their entire lives, Nancy and Dan were inseparable. It was always difficult to be apart from each other. Even going to the grocery store or the doctor’s office involved the two traveling together. One of Nancy’s favorite things to do was to go to the beach by Samoa and park looking out over the ocean. She and Dan would sit in the car holding hands, watching the waves come in, gazing at the ocean, cherishing the simple happiness of being together. Nancy would exclaim that just being together was the most important part of the drive. Her favorite songs were “Happy Together” by the Turtles and “Can’t Help Falling In Love With You” by Elvis Presley. She always wanted her “sweet, darling Danny” to hear them with her. Nancy loved the themes presented in the bible Book of Isaiah and she always prayed for everyone.

Nancy was a quiet, thoughtful person, always thinking of others before herself. She lived her life helping others, especially family. When you walked into a room she would always greet you with a heartfelt smile, filled with warmth, sweetness and kindness. She would always say “I love my family” and that included both her and Dan’s family. Nancy would often bring her famous and unique “care” packages to people just to let them know that they were special. Nancy simply enjoyed listening to everyone talk about their lives. She had a fantastic memory for times and dates of family and events. She wouldn’t say much but you could always see and feel her passion for you and her heartfelt concern when she asked how you were. Nancy will always be on our minds and will be deeply missed.

Private chapel services will be held for family and relatives at Ocean View Cemetery on March 2, 2026 at 2 p.m. There will be a gathering for family and relatives afterwards, location to be announced.

###

The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Nancy Leppek’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.