Laura Elizabeth (Nichols) Zelenka

Laura Elizabeth (Nichols) Zelenka, 49, died peacefully in the arms of her husband on January 21, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Laura was born in Rochester, MI on July 10, 1974, to Eugene and Betty Nichols. She lived her formative years in Leonard and Almont. Michigan, but always dreamed of seeing other places. In her early twenties she moved on her own to New Orleans, Louisiana. A place she had visited and fallen in love with. She met the love of her life and husband of 23 years, Chris (Kael) Zelenka.

Laura was proud to work as concierge of Le Richelieu hotel in New Orleans for many years. A place where she could always be herself and assist people as was her nature.

Eventually, Laura and Chris would move to Kentucky to be closer to family, and receive their greatest treasure, Lilly Elena Zelenka. Laura said that adopting and raising Lilly was the single most wonderful thing she had ever done. No child was loved more by their mother.

After their move to Kentucky, Laura spent nineteen years in finance, eighteen of which were in banking, then as a Branch Office Administrator at Edward Jones.

Laura loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed comic conventions, cosplay, Disney, Renaissance Faires and all things Halloween and Christmas. Laura was a loving and giving person, who took great joy in showing those around her how much she cared.

Laura was predeceased by her mother, Betty Nichols; and survived by her husband, Christopher Zelenka; daughter, Lilly Zelenka; father, Eugene (Donna) Nichols; sister, Eugenia (Brian) Edwards; nieces, Jennifer Edwards and Christina Edwards; and great-nephew, Chance Blevens.

Please join us for Laura’s Celebration of Life on May 18, 2024, 1 pm – 4 pm. The gathering will be held at Rustic Ridge, 2880 Lancaster Rd., Richmond.

Reppert Funeral Home and Cremation Service entrusted with arrangements.