Noreen H. Nickell

Noreen H. “Nikki” Nickell, 80 of Kearney passed away Monday, April 22, 2024 at her home. Noreen was born February 23, 1944 in Jennings, Kansas to Loren and Alice (Shimek) Nickell. During her childhood, she was raised in many small towns in south central Nebraska (Lexington, Alma, Franklin, and Benkelman), and north central Kansas (Smith Center, Natoma, and Norton) and the northeast Colorado community of Wray as her father pursued many ventures owning/managing sale barns and cattle buying. Eventually she graduated from Benkelman High School in 1962. While in Benkelman, Noreen was voted Ms. Benkelman and later ran for Miss Nebraska. Noreen went on to receive a degree in Fine Arts in Cosmetology in Denver, CO. Her professional career started by decorating displays at department stores for the May D & F company in Denver, CO. However, a majority of her career was served as a sales manager for Hyponex Potting Soil Company, which was later acquired by the O.M. Scotts Company. During her tenure she was awarded top sales manager for her district numerous times. She retired from the O.M. Scotts Company in 2002. In 2006, Noreen moved to Kearney to be closer to family. Noreen enjoyed floral designing, gardening and spending time with her family. Left to cherish her memory are her son and daughter in law, Kristian (Becky) Rennert of Elm Creek; grandson, Tate Rennert; sisters and their spouses: Judy Tucker of Smith Center, KS; Bobbie (Jady) Dechant of Thornton, CO; Betty Jo “BJ” (Doug) Parsons of Mesa, AZ; Debbie Stull of Natoma, KS; sister-in-law, Eileen Nickell of Casper, WY; brother-in-law, Don Stratman of Thornton, CO; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Noreen was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Patty Stratman and Beverly Nickell; and brother, Larry Nickell. A memorial service will be held Monday, May 20, 2024 at 11:30 AM at the Gail and Michael Yanney Pavilion, 2022 West 11th Street, Kearney, NE. In leu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family for future designation. Services are entrusted to O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral and Cremation Services. Condolences may be shared online at www.osrfh.com.

Noreen H. Nickell

February 23, 1944 - April 22, 2024