Christel Ann Nichols - Buskirk

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Christel Ann Nichols-Buskirk, 45, of Atlantic, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

Christel Ann was born on October 20, 1978, in Atlantic, Iowa, the daughter of Lawrence Edward and Lauri (Baier) Nichols. Some of her favorite memories of her childhood were going on the road with her dad in his truck (a trip to Canada being a highlight), working on cars with him and riding her bike from the shop to the gas station for pop for the two of them. Christel graduated from Atlantic High School in 1998. 

Christel loved butterflies, hearts, the color purple and flowers, roses being her favorite. She had a sweet tooth and loved sweets and snacks, and if there were Reese’s Pieces those were sure to be her first pick. In addition to watching her go-to YouTube channel, Bailey Sarian, she liked to stay up late watching movies and shows, which often times included topics of paranormal activity and documentaries of murder mysteries. Her favorite movie characters were Jack and Sally from the Nightmare Before Christmas. 

Christel cherished her kids, family, and animals especially her dogs, Shadow and Mocca. Time with those she loved was important and she looked forward to getting together for cookouts and fishing; she was one to always be up for any activity outdoors. Christel treasured her children and was always there for them. Together they made many great memories; playing games and making crafts together were at the top of the list. 

Christel always tried to make others happy, wanting everyone to get along; she was a sweet, kind, caring and loving person. She was a free spirit and fun to be around. Christel struggled with her mental health, as her life was getting harder her stress levels rose, dragging her farther and farther down. What Christel was dealing with was bigger that anyone thought; she was taken from us way to soon! 

Christel also known as Crissy, Fistel, Scoobs, Scoobyrubrat, Chris and Turtle will be deeply missed by her children, Ciera Nichols, Mikal Buskirk and Beau Buskirk, all of Atlantic; mother and step-father, Lauri and Robert Sampson of Atlantic; half-brother, Clay Buskirk of Glenwood, fiancé, Joe Wagner (engaged on June 12, 2022) and his daughters, Natasha and Kinsley, all of Atlantic; step-grandma, Linda Sampson of Exira; close cousins, Kate Nielsen (like a sister), Brianna Atkins and Sally Will, all of Atlantic; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Nichols; maternal grandparents, Bill and Erma Baier; paternal grandparents, Francis and Virginia Nichols; step-grandfather, Carroll Sampson; special aunt, JoAnn Hansen; and several extended family including her uncles. 

Visitation with the family present will begin at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 29th at Roland Funeral Home followed by a Funeral Service at 3:00 p.m.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Christel’s family and her arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.