Obituary: Nicole Marie Severson

March 6, 1987 ~ February 1, 2022

Nicole Marie Severson, 34, died on February 1, 2022, at her home in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Her devoted family was at her side as she fought her final battle with cancer.

Nicole was born March 6, 1987, to Jean (Gwen) and Darrel Severson, joining her older brother Kyle, and sister Janelle. Nicole always brought brightness to a room with her infectious laugh, quick wit, and bubbly personality. Her warm, kind and generous soul touched our hearts and made imprints on so many. Those who knew Nicole couldn’t wait to hear her laugh – she would throw her head back, slap her knee, and her eyes would start filling up with tears. By that time, she was laughing so hard that no one was immune – everyone was laughing and loving her effervescent joy.

Her 15-year career as a childcare teacher, starting at the Door County Childcare Center and following at the YMCA Barker Center, was her perfect match. She loved making children smile with her mischievous and fun personality – they loved “Coley”. A co-worker shared that the kids were so excited when she walked into the room; they were rejuvenated by her energy and had a special connection with her.  At the end of the day she would fondly share with parents what their child had accomplished. When out in the community, she’d often meet parents and their children whom she had in childcare, “her kids”, sharing memories with a big smile.

Nicole cherished Christmas, carefully collecting Disney themed ornaments every year. She could not wait to get to her favorite tree farm to pick out the perfect tree, and spent hours finding the perfect gift for those she loved. Annual Christmas trips to Minnesota were a beloved tradition. Birthdays meant birthday banners and special cake toppers. Nicole carefully chose her costume every Halloween, to include detailed makeup and nails. Her favorite colors, purple and pink, were found in most everything Nicole. She looked forward to outings and celebrations, and shopping with friends – especially her sister. She planned trips to the zoo to feed her favorite animals, the giraffes. Nicole enjoyed making plans for visiting family, including silly-string contests, and had a reputation for packing enough for a month when traveling to see Minnesota relatives for a week. Her trip to Disneyworld 4 years ago was a highlight of her life, and she always planned to return.  Nicole loved glitz and glamour and sparkle and Disneyworld. Most of all she loved her family and friends. Nicole celebrated life.

Nicole is survived by her parents, Jean (Gwen) and Darrel Severson; brother Kyle Severson, wife Linda, niece, Hailey and nephew, Nolan; sister Janelle Severson, Jonah Higgs, nephew, Shepherd; many loved family members: grandmother Eleanor Severson; Kim and Don Darling; Patrick Killian and Michel Wald; Dan Killian and Barb Livick and their children, Christine and Brittany; Jack and Sue Severson and their children, Ann (Jeff) and Joe (Alicia) and family; Annette Glamos, (Jim Severson); Lowell and Mindy Severson and their children Tyler (Maya) and Marissa, and many loving friends. Nicole was preceded in death by grandparents; Howard and Evelyn Killian and Bob Severson, and uncle, Jim Severson.

Nicole’s memories will be cherished by so many of all ages, here in Wisconsin, and Minnesota and California. Our hearts break at her passing. She will be deeply missed. We are so blessed to have had her in our lives.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, May 21, 2022, at Hope Church in the Community Room, from 1:00 to 4:00. Pastor Phillips Sweet will lead us through a short service at 1:30 pm until 2:00 pm and we will celebrate all the joy and radiant beauty of Nicole. If you are willing, please bring stories to share. “Her Kids” are especially welcome. Nicole’s favorite foods will be provided, with music and many items themed Disney – her request for this special day.

Nicole’s family is in the process of planning a Memorial on behalf of Nicole that will benefit the needs of, “her kids” at the Door Community Child Development Center. In lieu of flowers upon her passing, we know that Nicole would be delighted with your donation toward helping the young children that she loved.

The Forbes Funeral Home of Sturgeon Bay is assisting the family.  On-line condolences may be offered at www.forbesfuneralhome.com