Naomi Cleave

Madison - Naomi H. (Abrahams) Van Cleave, age 92, passed away peacefully at Oakwood Village East, May 13, 2017.

Naomi is survived by children Mark and Cindy Van Cleave of Menomonee Falls, WI; Bruce and Mary Van Cleave of Mequon, WI; Barbara and David Sheridan of Columbia, SC; and Jay and Julie Van Cleave of Elm Grove, WI as well as 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Naomi was also a friend to so many due to her kind, gentle and loving nature.

The daughter of Leonard and Blanche (Rogers) Abrahams, Naomi was born June 4, 1924 in Winterset, IA and raised on the family farm. After graduating high school, Naomi attended Central College in Pella, IA where she met Marvin Van Cleave, who became her life partner and love of her life. She and Marvin wed in 1944 in New York City and were married until his passing in 2013. While Marvin served in the Pacific Theater in World War II, Naomi returned to Winterset to teach, including time in a one room schoolhouse.

Along with Marvin, she raised four children and was a proud and enthusiastic grandmother. Later in life Naomi returned to school to earn a nursing degree and became a registered nurse. A lover of nature, Naomi was fond of birds and gardening, and especially growing roses. Marvin and Naomi were active volunteers and enjoyed traveling the world and spending time with family and friends. She was a long and faithful member of First Baptist Church, Madison, serving in many leadership positions in the church as well as teaching Sunday School.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 5, 2017 at First Baptist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 518 N. Franklin Ave., Madison, WI 53705.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
608-238-3434