Nancy Alberdeen Zitek, 81 of Wausau WI, passed away peacefully Monday August 3rd at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau. She was born in South Carolina to the late Gordon Cates Sr. and Mary Sauls Cates. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents as well as her brothers Gordon Cates Jr. and Frank Cates. Nancy worked as a nurse and spent most of her time as an educator and Associate Dean at Northcentral Technical College where she worked for many years before retiring. Nancy's friends and family were of the utmost importance to her. She built long lasting friendships with so many she encountered. She enjoyed traveling and was rarely without a four-footed companion as she loved and cared for numerous dogs through the years. She is survived by her brother Deana (Suzane) Cates, son Stanley (Lisa) Zitek; grandchildren Cory Zitek, Caleb Zitek, Cody Zitek, Great-Grandson Hudson as well as Nieces and Nephews. The family has decided to have services and a gathering for family and friends at a later date. John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HonorOne.com