Tammara ‘Tammy’ Ann Nickless
Tammara ‘Tammy’ Ann Nickless was born to David and Leonella “Nelli” Gilkey (Meyeres) on May 9, 1972 in Larned, Kansas. Tammy grew up in Garfield, Kansas. She attended neighboring Lewis High School. Tammy was a lifeguard as a teenager. She loved to be in the sun and teaching people of all ages how to swim. She also worked at Buckle, then went on to become a hairstylist. She graduated from cosmetology school at Barton County Community College.
Tammy met and later married the love of her life, Jon Nickless, on the Missouri River Queen, May 11, 1995. Tammy and Jon always dreamed of having a big family. They went on to have four children and adopted many pets along the way. Tammy’s kids and pets were her pride and joy. Jon and Tammy moved around a bit from Kinsley, Hoxie, Great Bend, all in Kansas, Kearney, Nebraska then finally to Imperial.
She had a range of interests and hobbies. Tammy enjoyed making things pretty from crafts she created or styling hair. She was a mom to all she encountered. She enjoyed working with children. She worked as a Special Education Para Educator. Tammy also enjoyed coaching the Special Olympics. Tammy spent much of her time dreaming up, planning, and going on family adventures with her husband, kids, and dogs.
Tammy leaves behind her loving spouse Jon Nickless; son Colby Nickless (Kenna Terryberry); daughters Taylar Nickless (Nick Ortner), Ragan and her husband Taylor Wilson and Paige Nickless; brothers David (Katie) Gilkey and Adam (Amy) Gilkey; sisters Stephannie (Mitchell) Nicol and Ammie (Robert) Schibler; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tammy was preceded in death by her parents; a host of aunts and uncles; nephews Grant Mlinar and Ryder Nicol; brother-in-law Jeff Weaver; and her baby born into heaven.
The family will host a Receiving of Friends Monday, Feb. 19 from 4-6 p.m. (MT) at Liewer Funeral Home, Imperial.
A Celebration of Life was held Tuesday, Feb. 20 at the Imperial Berean Church, Imperial with Pastor Matt Maxwell officiating. The family requested bright and cheerful colors in honor of Tammy.
Memorial contributions may be made to the McCook Humane Society or Chase County School Special Education Department.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.liewerfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Liewer Funeral Home.