Elaine J. Nichols, age 77, of Marion, passed away after a short illness June 30, 2016 at Marion General Hospital, where she was surrounded by loved ones.
She was born December 9, 1939 in Marion, to the late Karl and Wilma(Diedrich) Nichols. She had two siblings, Carol (Roy) Oehlers, and John (Laura) Nichols. Her parents and two siblings preceded her in death.
Survivors include her daughter, Laura Telles, brother-in-law, Roy, sister-in-law, Laura, cousins Kim and Greg Nichols, many other cousins, nieces, and nephews; and her sweet cats, Miss Kitty and Sammy.
Elaine was a 1957 graduate of Marion High School, and an avid Marion Giants fan most of her life. Elaine started working at Drs. Farris and Ulmer as a young adult. For a brief period she left Marion to see a little bit of the country and lived in L.A., Phoenix, and Florida, before returning to Marion in the 70’s with her young daughter, Laura.
Elaine returned to work for then Drs. Ulmer and Robbins Optometry, soon to be Robbins and Zirkle. She worked for the doctors a total of 49 years and was well known and loved by the doctors, staff, and patients. Because she worked there so long, the doctors and staff were family to Elaine and Laura. Even after she retired in 2013, they remained an integral part of each others lives.
Elaine loved Marion and could talk about the history of Marion for hours. She loved reminiscing about her Uncle Lee’s former iconic restaurant in Marion, The Grand Hamburg that resided at 5th and Boots. Or laughing about the fun times she and friends had hanging out and “cruising” Custer’s Last Stand.
Some of her hobbies included cross stitch and crochet. She created several masterpieces that she had matted and framed. They were so life like they looked like photographs. She also loved a good jigsaw puzzle and the occasional computer game. She liked to pass the time watching basketball, football, NASCAR, or political news. She was a big Bobby Knight fan and of course a Colts fan. And if you asked her, she made the best homemade noodles you’ve ever eaten.
Some of Elaine’s happiest days were spent with her beloved daughter Laura seeing shows at the Honeywell theatre in Wabash or just shopping around town. Anyone who knew Elaine knew of the special bond the two had. Even to the end, Elaine’s thoughts were of “her” Laura.
During this tragic time, many have stepped forward and helped Elaine and Laura, a special thanks to those as well as to her sister-in-law, Laura Nichols, that came all the way from Florida to care for Elaine and her daughter during this time. Elaine was very thankful for her presence and assistance.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 6, 2016 in Raven-Choate Funeral Home, 1202 Kem Road, Marion, Indiana with Reverend Tom Mansbarger officiating.
Burial will immediately follow funeral services in Grant Memorial Park Cemetery, Marion, Indiana.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2016 in the funeral home.
Online condolences may be made at www.ravenchoate.com