Stephanie Ann "Ann" Nickols

1948 - 2026

Janesville, WI - Stephanie Ann "Ann" Nickols, age 77, passed away on March 6, 2026, at home. Ann was born on October 28, 1948, in Evanston, Illinois, the daughter of the late John "Jack" and Elizabeth "Ban" (Kohler) Dreyer. She attended Adams Elementary and Marshall Junior High School and graduated from Janesville High School in 1967. Ann attended Beloit College and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She eventually graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Ann married Steve Nickols, her high school sweetheart, on August 8, 1970, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church. Together they shared 47 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2018. After raising her children, she worked various jobs before beginning a career as a CPS social worker for Rock County. She loved her coworkers and was passionate about helping families navigate difficult circumstances.

Ann was a member of the Junior Woman's Club, served on the CATS board at Craig High School, and was on the board of and was also a volunteer for Hope Blooms at SSM Health. She also enjoyed volunteering in the kindergarten classroom at St. John Vianney.

Ann was active throughout her life and enjoyed cross-country skiing, playing tennis, and golfing. She spent many wonderful hours on the golf course with her family and various golf groups and was recently named the President of her Thursday morning golf group. She was also a member of a bridge club for over 50 years, where she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Ann cherished the connections she made in her neighborhood, where she became a second mom and grandmother to many. Kids and neighbors always knew they could stop by for a chat, a laugh, or a little encouragement. Her favorite night of the year was Halloween, when she delighted in greeting the neighborhood's trick-or-treaters. This past year alone, she welcomed more than 900 children, sharing a kind word and a piece of candy with each one. It was one of the many ways she made people feel seen and cared for, and it was in this neighborhood that she formed some of her dearest and longest friendships.

Ann will be remembered for her welcoming spirit and warm smile. She had a way of making everyone feel comfortable and included. She often came home from meeting someone new saying that she had just met her "new best friend." Her calm, patient, and kind nature made people feel at ease, and she had a special gift for making others feel seen, cared for, and valued.

Ann loved spending time with her family, whether taking trips, boating, attending sporting events, or simply gathering at a favorite local spot. But more than anything, she loved spending time with her grandchildren, whether at family gatherings or cheering them on as they pursued the things they loved. Being their grandmother brought her endless pride and joy.

Ann is survived by her three children, Curt Nickols and his children Jack, Charlie, and Josie; Katy Nickols; and Ben (Nicky) Nickols and their children Sam and Hank, all of Janesville. She is also survived by her cousins, Lucie and Mary of Atlanta, her in-laws, and many nieces and nephews. Ann leaves behind many true and loyal friends whom she cherished.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Steve; her parents; and her brother, John.

A visitation will be held at APFEL WOLFE FUNERAL HOME on Monday, March 30, from 4:00-7:00 P.M. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. at ST. JOHN VIANNEY CATHOLIC CHURCH on Tuesday, March 31.

Memorials may be made to the SSM Health Foundation - Mary and Bob Arndt Cancer Care Endowment.

Her kindness, warmth, and love for others will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.