In Loving Memory of Annie Kate Nyquist (nee Dunleavy)
Annie Kate Nyquist, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family in her 86th year on October 5, 2023, in Amarillo, TX.
Annie was born in Doobeha, Moygownagh, County Mayo, Ireland on March 6, 1937. She was the seventh of eight children to Michael and Margaret (Maggie) Dunleavy. She lived many years with her Aunt Ann Farrell (who she resembled) in Ballybrooney.
After graduating from Gortnor Abbey in Ballina, she emigrated to the United States in October 1955, sponsored by her Aunt Sarah and Uncle Joe, joining her sister Margaret. She worked as an IBM key punch operator in the early days of computing. Annie also played camogie as part of a team in Chicago.
She met her future husband, Richard, that same year at the Aragon Ballroom and they married in 1960. She loved his blue eyes, smile, and often told him “he’s a good dancer” (in Irish). Annie loved her many Nyquist in-laws. She raised her family in Itasca, IL and eventually joined her husband’s business, taking it over after his death. In 2015, she moved to Amarillo, TX.
She waited decades to become a US citizen, due to her great love of—and loyalty to—Ireland. She loved politics and exercised her right to vote as an American. Besides politics, she loved being outside, exercising, gardening, tennis, and golfing. She hosted many holiday parties with family and friends. She had a mischievous sense of humor, loved by her family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard; sisters Mary, Bridie, Margaret; brothers John, Michael, and Patrick (PJ); and grandsons Bryson and Joey.
She is survived by her children Aimee (Michael) Groshans, Jill (Bobby LaMantia) Chandler, and John (Laura) Nyquist. Grandchildren Evan (Rachel), Alice (Dallas), Richard, and Sean; great-grandchildren Ryley and Lucy, her sister Josie (Steve) Venci, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews both in America and Ireland.
Annie’s wishes were to forgo a funeral service and to be remembered as she was.
John, Jill and Aimee – Some of my fondest and most fundamental memories are based around you three, and your family …and how your mother a strong constant at its center. I am so sad to learn of her passing. I am keeping you all in my prayers. My love and deepest condolences.
Our deepest sympathy Aimee and to all your family. I never met your mother but by knowing you I’m sure I would have loved her. It’s so hard to lose your mother and I pray god gives you all the strength you need to get through this. Take whatever time you need to grieve and just know she will always be with you. 🙏💙
Dear Nyquist Family,
May I offer my condolences on the loss of your beloved Mom. I did not know her, but feel like I do thru my friend, her daughter, Aimee. She is at peace now and may her memory give you comfort. May she R.I..P.
Patti Lane
My heart and prayers go out to you Jill and all of your family. I heard so many nice things about your Mom and so wish I had gotten to know her. Please let me know if I can do anything to help ease this pain. Love you, hon.
Dear Nyquist Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences. Your mom was always so kind, friendly, and had a great sense of humor. One situation that stands out to me was at my Dad’s wake. Your mom and I were standing by his casket and your mom quietly said to me, “He always had a lot to say, but I guess not so much anymore!!” 😂 Suffice it to say, we had a good chuckle. By the way, my dad loved her because of her sense of humor and the fact that they enjoyed their evening cocktails and sharing some neighborly laughs.
May she RIP and may you all find comfort in your memories and Faith. God bless.