FREEPORT – Nancy Barbara Cimbal passed away on June 12, 2023 and her husband, John Denis Cimbal, passed away on June 15, 2023, both after long illnesses. As difficult as it was, their passing so close together was a miracle for our family, as we could not see either of them carrying on without the other. They were married for 63 years.

Nancy was born in Syracuse, N.Y., on Feb. 1, 1939, to Robert and Wilma Knecht. John was also born in Syracuse, on Oct. 29, 1937, to John and Amelia “Mickey” Cimbal. They married in 1960 and enjoyed many happy years raising their family in Central New York. Nancy worked passionately at a crisis pregnancy and adoption agency and John was a well-respected New York State Trooper for 25 years. Together, they also ran a successful scuba diving business. They meant so much to so many people. John and Nancy, also known as Pop Pop and Nanu, loved Jesus, their family, extended family and friends dearly. They were loving, brave and wise, even in the days leading up to both of their deaths when their strong faith and devotion to one another was most inspiring.

John and Nancy are survived by four daughters and their families, including eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren: Carrie and Scott Webber, Ryan Webber, Kelina Chevalier, Kristyn Rochester, Ricky and Lindsey Rochester and their daughter Charlotte, Riley Rochester, Robby Rochester and Carolina Hernandez, Suzann and Scott Lydick, Jeremy Lydick and Monica Von Egidy, Joshua and Adrianna Lydick and their children Forrest, Haddie and Cliff, Caleb Lydick and Caragan Phillips and Conner Lydick.

John is also survived by his sister Sandra Cimbal Range and his brother and sister-in-law, Denis and Jane Cimbal and their children Denis Jr., Peter and his wife Sophie and Tim and his wife Vivian.

Nancy was predeceased by two of her brothers: Jerry Knecht and Robert Knecht and her sister in law Biliana Cicin-Sain Knecht. She is survived by her third brother Glen Knecht and his wife Betty Jane, her sister-in-law Sue Knecht and many loving nieces and nephews.

A celebration of their lives will be held on Saturday August 26, at 1 p.m., at Westside Community Chapel (6198 Airport Rd, Syracuse, N.Y. 13209), with a reception to follow.

The family wishes to thank the devoted and caring private caregivers as well as those that work for Southern Maine Hospice and The Gosnell House for helping us navigate a very difficult time.

Condolences may be sent to the family at JDCNBC2023@gmail.com.

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