Nicky was born on August 10, 1952, to Pearl and Steven Wagner. She was the youngest of three siblings and grew up in Merrillville, Indiana, alongside her two sisters, Carol and Shirley. From an early age, Nicky was known for being delightfully “wacky” and for her incredible gift of making people laugh. Her joyful spirit and quick wit brought light into every room she entered.

Nicky was married to the love of her life, Walter “Wally” Dausch, and together they shared 28 wonderful years. Although Nicky had no children of her own, her Niece and nephew along with Wally’s children and grandchildren became hers in every way that mattered. She was so proud to be known as “Aunt Nicky and Grandma Nicky,” titles she cherished. She was also a wonderful daughter and was able to provide a loving home for her parents until they passed.

Professionally, Nicky worked as a mortgage broker at Custom Mortgage, where her drive and talent quickly set her apart. She became the top broker in the company, earning numerous awards and even trips in recognition of her success. She also made history as the first woman to open her own Custom Mortgage branch—an accomplishment that reflected both her determination and pioneering spirit.

Nicky was a gifted artist whose creativity knew no bounds. She loved painting, flower arranging, and creating stained glass pieces. Even more than creating, she loved teaching her friends and family how to craft alongside her, sharing not just her skills but her joy.

Nicky spent many years training and showing her beloved chow dogs. She loved all animals. She was always caring for her plants as well.
She entertained her friends with meals including vegetables from her garden and crafting while listening to opera and show tunes.

She always had her nails done perfectly and delighted in helping others with theirs as well. It was just one more way she made people feel special and cared for.

Nicky adored holidays and treasured time spent with family. She always made sure to have plenty of gifts on hand for any extra children who might show up. She listened closely to what people mentioned wanting or needing, quietly tucking those details away so she could surprise them later. Whether the gifts were silly, fun, or exactly what someone needed, she found her greatest happiness in giving.

Despite enduring significant loss and pain, including her battle with multiple sclerosis and the heartbreaking passing of her beloved husband in October 2018, Nicky never lost her radiant spirit.
Since her diagnosis with MS she always made sure everyone knew she wanted to donate her body to finding a cure, which we did.
No matter how much she was hurting, when someone asked, “How are you?” her answer was always the same: “Wonderful!”

Her smile, resilience, generosity, and unwavering positive attitude will be remembered by all who knew and loved her. Nicky’s legacy is one of laughter, creativity, love, and a heart that gave endlessly to others.