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Normal - Nikki L. Spears, 62, of Normal passed away at 2:40 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at her residence.

Nikki was born on August 11, 1951 in Robinson, IL, a daughter of Lorel and Maxine McLain Parker. She married Michael Spears on August 10, 1974 in Oblong, IL. He survives.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by two sons, Aaron (Shannon) Spears, of North Liberty, IA, Matthew (Rebecca) Spears, of Bloomington; a brother, Jerry (Mary) Parker, of Delevan; a sister, Janet Dunn, of Evansville, IN; three grandchildren, Kiah Spears, Noah Yost and Annika Yost.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother in law, Hugh Dunn.

Nikki graduated with a BS from Eastern Illinois University. She was employed at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln for 17 years, and later she was employed as a Medical Technologist at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center for 23 years.

Nikki was an avid gardener and often could be found outdoors during the summer months. She enjoyed traveling, live music and the arts, movies, and spending time with her family. Nikki was an enthusiastic reader, and was seldom seen at home without a book nearby. Nikki was dedicated her work, and developed lasting friendships with her co-workers. She truly cared about the work she did, and strived to do her best each day. Nikki was a loving wife and mother. She was a caring employee, dedicated to her career.

A Celebration of Life service will be at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 9, 2014 at New Covenant Community in Normal with Rev. Susan Ryder and Rev. Cheryl Peterson-Harlan officiating.

A visitation will be from 3-5:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington.

Memorials in Nikki's honor may be made to the Community Cancer Center, 407 East Vernon Ave., Normal, IL 61761.

Online condolences may be made to the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.