Nancy Lynn Trost

Nancy Trost (née Winkler) 1955 - 2026

Nancy Trost, age 70, of St. Paul, passed away following surgery on February 20, 2026. Known for her boundless warmth, quick humor, and kindness, Nancy left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to know her.

Nancy grew up on the East Side of St. Paul-just down the street from a boy named Steve, who would later become her beloved husband. Married in 1974, Nancy and Steve built a beautiful life together, raising their family in South Saint Paul. She took immense pride in her children and was their fiercest advocate. Being a "good" mom was incredibly important and with that outlook Nancy became a quintessential neighborhood mom, cheering on her children and all of their friends. She was ever-present: at the hockey rink, softball diamond, volleyball court, race finish line, and any celebration for her kids and grandkids. Nancy took great pride in their success. She believed in being present, making memories, and always getting a group photo. She was a constant source of support and always answered Bry and Jen's calls, regardless of who she was with or what she was doing. Her kids and grandkids were the true centers of her universe.

Nancy worked at Minnesota Mutual Life Insurance until 1996, and then went on to bring her mom spirit, love of rules, and desire to support kids to Kaposia Education Center, where she spent many years in the classroom, cafeteria, and outside chaperoning, where she developed strong connections with students.

When the Wild arrived in Minnesota, Nancy was the second person in line for season tickets, gracing the cover of the Pioneer Press with season ticket holder #1, Rob, for the home opener. She loved hockey and followed the Wild, always hoping for the elusive Stanley Cup.

After 38 years in South St. Paul, in a house and yard that hosted countless parties, was the envy of the neighborhood and that they tirelessly maintained, Nancy and Steve relocated to The Collection in St. Paul shortly before Steve's passing. Nancy's friendly and outgoing nature, plus their furry companion, Coco, helped them make fast friends. This vibrant community became a vital source of comfort, support, joy, commiseration, and laughter, where Coco became a local favorite among The Collection.

Nancy loved to be out and about. She took in plays, concerts, and most festivals, especially when Steve was alive. She loved a well-prepared meal, a good glass of wine, and making a night of it. Nancy also could not live without the MN State Fair, shopping for deals, and finding new gluten-free must haves. She preferred all of these things in community, filling those outings with laughter, providing recommendations or go-tos (always the researcher), and was a loyal friend who lent a listening ear and advice.

If you knew Nancy, you knew her deep love of travel. She and Steve traveled Europe, Hawaii, enjoyed multiple excursions along the West and East coasts of the US, making so many great memories along the way. Recent trips to Costa Rica with Bryan, Jen, Sheldon and Landon; quality time at the Sheehey cabin; New York City with Caroline; and Vancouver with Dominic were truly special. She was always eager for a new adventure, going on a number of trips with her friends from the Collection. When she returned she loved to tell stories and share her adventures. With many more trips on the horizon, Nancy knew staying in one place was not how life was to be lived. If she was here, she would tell you to book the trip, take care of your health, hug your loved ones, feed the birds, marvel at the butterflies, read a good book, and listen to the music you love. This is how you can honor her life and legacy.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Diane Winkler and her beloved husband, Steve, whose death changed her forever. She will be lovingly remembered and desperately missed by her children, Jennifer (Tim) and Bryan (Jen); her cherished grandchildren, Dominic, Sheldon, Caroline, and Landon; her siblings, Cindy (Rick), Gary (Katie), Kelly (Amy), and Cheryl (Jim); her godchildren, LeeAnn and Alyssa; plus in-laws and many beloved nieces, nephews, and long-time neighbors and friends.

A celebration of Nancy's life will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Mueller Memorial Funeral Home in St. Paul. Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with a memorial service beginning at 1:00 PM. A reception will immediately follow in the Waterfall Room at Como Lakeside Pavillion. In lieu of flowers, make a memorial donation to Belwin Conservancy or Minnesota Zoo.