Obituary: Nancy Dinelli-Prill

Nancy Carroll Dinelli-Prill, 90, passed away on April 26 in Platteville, Wisconsin. She was born on Nov. 9, 1934, in Highland Park, Illinois. She was the sixth of seven children born to Frank and Alice (Castelliari) Dinelli. Nancy married Donald Prill in 1962 and became a farmer’s wife.

She had many passions: gardening, painting, collecting antiques and, of course, writing, which became her career for nearly 40 years at AgriNews. She was an advertising sales representative and wrote a column, “Nancy’s Notes: ‘The Farmer’ and I,” encompassing life on the farm and other timely topics. She also wrote six books. Don, “The Farmer,” was her in-house editor and the inspiration for many of her columns.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, parents and siblings, Eva Maiorano, Lillian Francis, Joey Dinelli, Mary Haines, Jerry Dinelli and Jimmy Dinelli.

She is survived by son Kevin (Tracy) with children Jessica (Brian) Heinz, Clayton (Andrea) and Ean (Brie); daughter Gretchen Bimrose with children Nathan (Elaine) and Noah; and daughter Alicia (Arnold) Prill-Adams with children Jacob (Regan) and Cody. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren, with one more due in June.

Nancy is remembered for being a spunky firecracker that cherished her roots. She shared with readers her stories of growing up Italian, as well as related how a city girl learned to help “The Farmer.” She transitioned from anecdotal columns to becoming a true advocate for agriculture, which gained her a devoted following over the years.

Melby Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family. Per Nancy’s wishes, there will not be any visitation or formal services. Online condolences can be expressed at www.melbyfh.com/obituary/nancy-prill.