Leslie Nickless

Leslie Nickless, 64, of Fort Dodge, IA, died Friday, April 4, 2025, at her home. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Shiny Top Brewery, 520 Central Avenue – Fort Dodge. Memorials may be directed to the family. Arrangements are with Historic Bruce Funeral Home of Fort Dodge. 

Leslie was born July 29, 1960, in Fort Dodge, IA, the daughter of Lester and Shirley (Ostrander) Rosburg. She attended Holy Rosary and St. Edmond Catholic School with the class of 1978. Soon after, Leslie joined the U.S. Air Force and proudly served her country until her honorable discharge in 1988. Leslie worked as both a CNA and a housekeeper for many years. She truly adored her customers, and she appreciated all of the close relationships she built with them. The way they supported her over the years truly meant the world to her. Leslie was known for her unwavering passion for sports, particularly her loyalty to the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers. She was often the one yelling at the TV as if she were right there on the field or court with them. Her love for sports was matched only by her appreciation for music. She often listened to bands like Shinedown, Three Days Grace, and Seether. Music was able to help her find the words she was sometimes unable to express on her own. You could also find her spending time hustling people at the pool table or watching one of countless crime shows.

Leslie was known as a spitfire, always full of energy and someone who was not afraid to speak her mind. She was always ready to use her voice to speak up for herself and others. Leslie was committed to helping those that she loved. Her generous spirit was evident in the countless ways she extended a hand to those in need, always ready to lend support. Even if she was not in a position to help, she would still find a way to help those who needed it. She was kind and had a huge smile, accompanied by the loudest laugh in the room.

Leslie is survived by 3 children: Nathan Nickless of Dakota City, IA, Jamie Stefani and husband Kyle of Waukee, IA, and Jana Willard of Gowrie, IA; 3 grandchildren: Orion, Dorian, and Austin, as well as one on the way. She is also survived by 2 siblings: Chris Rosburg of Fort Dodge and Dave Rosburg of Fort Dodge, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and daughter: Jessica Nickless. Our hearts can smile and find comfort at the thought of this joyful reunion taking place.