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Nichole Lynn Keller, age 46, passed away at her home in South Arm Township, Michigan, on June 8, 2026.
Born on May 5, 1980, in Jackson, Michigan, Nichole attended Vandercook Lake and Anderson Lake Alternative Schools. Throughout her life, she held many jobs, but her greatest passion was caring for others. After a 12-year hiatus, she proudly completed her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in April 2026 and had recently fulfilled a long-held goal by returning to the healthcare field, where she found purpose and fulfillment helping those in need.
Though she faced ongoing health challenges, including fibromyalgia, Nichole worked to bring awareness, understanding, and support to others living with chronic illness. She was known for putting a smile on her face even during difficult times and for encouraging others who struggled in silence.
Nichole longed for a peaceful, quiet life and found it with the love of her life, Murphy Keller. Though they were married on September 23, 2025, they had been partners, best friends, and soulmates for more than 16 years. Murphy was the calm to her storm, and together they built a quiet life near Charlevoix, Michigan, just down the road from Lake Michigan and the beach she loved so much. Murphy and Nichole were even more blessed when Murphy’s son, Jacob, joined them.
Nichole is survived by her devoted husband, Murphy Keller; her children, MacKenzie (Curtis) Thorp, Austin (Nichole) Casterline, and Skye (Michael) Coleman; her stepson, Jacob Keller; her mother, Liz McMurtrie; her aunts, Tina Sauber and Sheila Page; her Great Aunt Susie McMurtrie; her Great Uncle Pat Sauber; three cousins, Brandon Lammon, John Lammon and Eli Page; and many lifelong friends who became family over the years.
She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Judy Holcombe; her father, Steve Bradley; her uncle, Marty Holcombe; and her brother-in-law, Joseph Keller.
Nichole’s circle may have been small, but her impact was not. She will be remembered for her caring heart, loyal friendships, resilience, sense of humor, and the love she gave to those fortunate enough to know her.
The family is not requesting donations; however, those who feel led may contribute toward funeral expenses through Penzien Funeral Homes in East Jordan, or make a donation in Nichole’s memory to a fibromyalgia awareness organization or suicide prevention charity of their choice.
Nichole will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life honoring Nichole will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Fisherman’s Island State Park, 16480 Bells Bay Road, Charlevoix, Michigan 49720.
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