Kristen "Kristee" Nickel, 78, died suddenly on July 25 at the Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. Kristee's life began in New Jersey on February 16, 1944.  As a young girl, Kristee's mother Lillian Van Bergen (deceased), along with her sister Marlene moved to Annapolis Md where she grew up and met and married the father of her children Peter Danna (deceased). She was a resident of Arnold for the past 30 years, prior to that she resided in Severna Park.  She was a bartender for many years at Milhausens Tavern and Hamlin's Restaurant in Severna Park before moving to Arnold in 1989.  She was a licensed childcare provider after moving to Arnold, where she cared for many children over the years. KiKi, as they affectionately called her remained close to many of the children she cared for well after her retirement. Her hobbies included cooking, reading, yard sales, and spending time with her family.

She was a member of the Broadneck Elks Lodge where she met her husband, Carl. Both were very active at the Elks Lodge, where Mrs. Nickel also bartended periodically.  She loved Shuffleboard and participated on the Elks Shuffleboard League. She was an avid animal lover and enjoyed taking care of her two dogs and numerous birds. She was devoted to her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Carl H. Nickel, four daughters, Cheryl L. Herron of Pasadena, Tammy R. Danna-Carter of Calloway MD, Brenda L. Horton of South Carolina, and Michele L. Truelove of Arnold; one son, Peter Scott Danna of Pasadena; one sister, Marlene L. Sherlock of Delaware; one aunt, Sharon E. Greco of Edgewater: 7 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life reception will be held on August 7, 2022, from 2 - 6 pm at the Broadneck Elks Lodge, 931 Lake Drive, Arnold, MD. In lieu of flowers, Kristee asked that donations in her name be made to Friends of Anne Arundel County Animal Control, Inc. www.faacac.org.