Nicella Ann O'Brien
January 03, 1957 - February 13, 2021
Obituary
MADISON - Nikki O'Brien, age 64, of Madison passed away on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021. She was born on Jan. 3, 1957, in Madison, the daughter of Ralph and JoAnne O'Brien.
A proud mom and nana, Nikki chatted daily with her son Cody. She loved spending time with her family and in the last year she was so happy to see Cody get married and was ecstatic about her new grandson, Shay. Her time with Shay was cherished, though cut too short. She loved to rock him to sleep, sing him ”You Are My Sunshine,” and shared lots of smiles and giggles.
Nikki dreamt big. Traveling and fun were in her plans for the future. She was a creative artist--many of Nikki’s friends own a bracelet or necklace she made--and she was excited to teach Shay crafts and painting. She recently took a train to Idaho to spend months with a friend and looked forward to many more adventures. She loved animals - cats, dogs, and everything in between - and enjoyed walking the trails around her home to see the birds and squirrels.
Nikki’s family is heartbroken by her sudden departure from this world. We’ll tell Shay all about his nana Nikki, and what fun she was and how much love she had to give. Nikki will live on in our stories and in our hearts.
Nikki is survived by her son, Cody (Katie) O'Brien; grandson, Shay O'Brien; sister, Sue O'Brien; and nieces and nephews, Michael (Julie) Gray, Jenifer Gray, Joseph (Tracy) Gray and Sara Gray. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Cheryl Gray; and brother, Patrick O'Brien.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date due to COVID. If friends or family would like to send a card, they can be sent to her family at 410 N. 7th St., Madison WI 53704.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420
Events
There are no events for Nicella yet.
Photos
No photos of Nicella have been shared yet.
Memories
DK
Diane Kramer
Other •
We were so sorry to hear of cousin Nikki's death and send love and hugs to all. She will be watching Cody, Katie and especially Shay with blessings from above and all the MPR relatives welcomed her to heaven! Loving God, I know that you’re calling me home. I’m grateful for the life you gave me And the family and friends you allowed me to share. Throughout my entire life you’ve been with me, And now I am preparing to see you face to face. As I come to you, Please remember the good I did And forgive any sins I have committed. Grant me peace and comfort and to those who love me Because I know that you’re calling me home. Amen.
DM
Dawn (Putnam) Matson
Other •
Cody I am in shock hearing about your mom. Nik I I was an awsome lady and a good friend. She had her battles but she fought them one at a time and won. She was the first person to believe in me, and gave me the chance to learn how to get do office work. Your mom helped me re learn skills and do office work at Steep. N Brew. Told me to never give up. She was also a great mom to you. She loved you so much ,so very very proud of the man you became. She was so excited to tell me about you getting married, and your beautiful son. I will miss your mom so much. She was taken way to soon from all of us. You, your family are in my thoughts. So sorry for your loss. She will be your guardian angel now till you can be together again
PW
Patty Weller
Other •
I grew up with Nikki and spent many nights at her house. I will always remember the smell of toast in the morning that her mom made us before school. She will always live in my heart. We reconnected on Facebook and talked on the phone, my heart breaks that she's gone, but most of all for her family. May the good lord give you all strength.
CR
Cora Ray
Other •
Nikki, many good times at West High and Manchesters. Pat Powers
PJ
Patricia Jameson
Other •
Nikki's sweet spirit has touched us, as has her delight in being a grandmother. We who have been privileged to live in the same building with her have been enriched. One day, we will meet again.
MP
Ms Charlie Pierson
Other •
Wow, there are so many memories, since 1972. We were fun high school friends. Always laughing and being silly. But we were both down to earth young ladies. A few yrs ago she was with me for my Parathyroid Surgery. We'd go out to eat. Nicella, (I always loved that name), was so excited about her son Cody getting married and Katie being her daughter in love, and extremely looking forward to her newborn Grandson and being a Grandmother. And Nikki was also excited to move in her apartment as a young Senior. I remember her saying it finally feels like home. I just can't believe my friend is gone. COVID-19 puta halt on things. I was supposed to see her new apt, she was supposed to see mine, and we were supposed to go eat out some more. I wear the bracelet and necklace she made for me, so frequently. God, I know you have my good hearted and caring friend, I had been missing her already and now I am surely missing her. Missing her laughter, sharing our stories, our lives, our love in being friends. Nikki, your no longer have to fear anything. We would always end our conversations and departures with, "I love you", and so Nikki, I can only do the same right now and say, "I love you always". Ms Charlie "Pye"