Nicole was born on March 29, 1989, in Grinnell, Iowa to Joel and Carla Wentland Kelling. She was raised in Grinnell and graduated from Grinnell High School with the Class of 2007. She was a member of the Grinnell High School golf team that competed at the Iowa State Girls High School Golf Tournament. Following her high school education, she attended Ellsworth Community College. During the summer months she enjoyed working with her cousins on detasseling teams for Pioneer Seed Corn Company in Tama.


Nicole was a member of the Grinnell United Methodist Church. She enjoyed playing golf, solving puzzles, playing video games with her brother, Justin, listening to music and socializing with friends.


She is survived by her parents, Joel and Carla Kelling of Grinnell; one brother, Justin Kelling of Grinnell and her beloved cat "Chester"; her paternal grandparents, Merrill and Lou Kelling of Humboldt; and her maternal grandparents, Mike and Dixie Wentland of Hartwick. Nicole was preceded in death by her Uncle Greg, Great Aunt Marlene and Great Uncle Bob, who all held a special place in her heart.


Should friends desire, memorials may be directed to Dollars for Scholars and sent in care of Joel and Carla Kelling, 1827 Spencer Street, Grinnell, Iowa 50112.