Eleanor "Ellie" Elizabeth Nickel, 85, passed away Friday, March 6, 2026. She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on December 25, 1940, to the late Erwin and Gertrude (Gross) Bendlin.

Ellie spent her early life in Milwaukee, where she attended Wisconsin Lutheran High School, graduating in 1958. After, she attended a nurses' training school to become an L.P.N. – there she met Richard Nickel, the love of her life.

Eleanor and Richard married on May 26, 1962, in Milwaukee, WI. They had two children: Richard (Rick) Nickel Jr. married to Mary and Amy Spaude married to Scott. They were blessed with 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren, with whom they spent much of their time. Richard passed a few days short of celebrating their 63rd wedding anniversary.

Ellie had an enthusiasm for interior design, nurtured during her time learning with the LaSalle Institute while completing her associate's degree, which led her to work as an interior design consultant for over 25 years. When not working, Ellie passionately gave her time to a variety of community and faith organizations.

She spent nearly 20 years with Extension Homemakers, where she served as Central Advisor, president of the Local and County clubs, and chaired several committees; as well as took an active role in the local 4H chapter, where she led projects and clubs, chaired committees, and served as a judge in local fairs.

Ellie was also well known around Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, where she took an active role in the life and activities of the congregation. A prolific quilter all her life, Eleanor contributed several banners to the church that still hang there proudly.

Ellie was always open to learning any new craft and usually mastered it. Eleanor, along with Richard, loved spending time playing cribbage and cards with family and friends. The phrase "Queen Bee to you" was heard in nearly every game, as was the "pew, pew, pew" of her iconic style of shuffling cards.

She led a life of devotion – to her family, her community, and the hobbies and interests that brought her joy. Eleanor will be remembered fondly by her sister, Barb Zabel; her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; as well as extended family members and many friends.

Family and friends may visit at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 2160 Packerland Dr., Green Bay, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026. A funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at Fort Howard Memorial Cemetery.