Nicole Marie Olson

Nicole Marie Olson, known affectionately as Nikki to her friends and family, passed away on December 22, 2025, at the age of 43. She was born on March 7, 1982, in Lansing, Michigan, daughter of Bruce and Cathy (Rupright) Penfield.
Nikki was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, her ambition and talent led her to further her education at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, where she honed her skills and emerged as a gifted chef.
Nikki was best known for her role as a chef at the Log Jam Restaurant in her hometown of Grand Ledge. There, she delighted patrons with her dishes, each dish a testament to her love for cooking and her desire to bring joy through food.
She is survived by her husband, Wayne Olson. Her loving mother, Cathy Penfield, and her siblings, Phillip (Roberta) Penfield and Jess (Bruce) Westen; her nieces, Aryel Scott, Klaira Westen, and Kairi Westen, and nephews, Pierce Penfield, Jimmy Smith, and Bentley Westen. Her great-nieces, Eden Scott and River Scott, were blessed to have felt the love of such a caring aunt, even if for too short a time.
Nikki was preceded in death by her father, Bruce Penfield, and her loving grandparents, Virginia and Bert Rupright, and June Bug. She was also predeceased by her cherished Uncle Eric Rupright, whose memory she held close to her heart.
Beyond the kitchen, Nikki's interests were as diverse as the recipes she crafted. She found immense joy in the simple act of snuggling with her fur babies, knowing there was no better therapy than the love of her pups. Her girlfriends were an extension of her family, with whom she shared countless hours of laughter and support. Nikki also had a fondness for the whimsical magic of Renaissance Fairs, where she could step into a world of fantasy and camaraderie.
A memorial service will be held Monday, December 29, 2025, 3:00 p.m. at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, 301 E. Jefferson St., Grand Ledge, MI 48837 with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Donations can be made in loving memory of Nikki to Mills Funeral Home. For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com