By Erin Dietzer
The Holland Sentinel
HAMILTON, Mich. — The family of Hamilton teen Nickie Naber has created a scholarship for first responders in her memory.
Nickie, who died in a car accident June 10, had recently completed the EMT program at Careerline Tech Center. She was training to become a first responder capable in all fields: firefighter, police and EMT. She participated in HOSA as part of the EMT team that placed in the top eight among her peers in Michigan.
“At the Careerline Tech Center, Nickie was an enthusiastic member of TEAM EMS,” a statement from Hamilton superintendent David Tebo said. “She worked hard, displayed a great deal of perseverance and was always kind to others.”
Nickie, 17, was previously a student at Zeeland Schools and attended Zeeland East High School through 10th grade. She transferred to Pioneer Tech at Hamilton High School and was to graduate on the evening of June 10.
Nickie is survived by her parents, Carrie and Bob Naber, of Hamilton, and Steve Baker and Paula Crigger, of Battle Creek; sisters, Ashley Baker, Sara Baker, Stevie Naber, Katie Naber, Jessica Crigger and Sammie Crigger; grandparents, Bob and Bev Martin, Pam Martin and Matt Leslie, Marla Joy Naber, Sid and Peg Baker; and many extended family and friends.
In addition to her EMT training, Nickie was an artist who expressed herself through several mediums. One of her works, a colorful, melted crayon piece called “Imagination’s Heartbeat,” was donated by request to a gallery and silent auction established to fund an art scholarship in memory of Zeeland art teacher Marnie Assink. Nickie had not taken a class with Assink, but had a close relationship with her during her time as a Zeeland student.
“Honestly, I do not like to take credit,” Nickie said in the Hamilton Community Schools February/March newsletter. “I love to give and make others happy and do good. The best gift is knowing I did something good and made someone smile. That is thank you enough.”
That kind and generous spirit is how her family and peers are remembering her.
“She cared strongly for those around her and was willing to give her time and energy to leave a positive impact on others,” Tebo said. “Her shining spirit will leave a mark on all she has encountered, those of us who had the opportunity to spend time with Nickie will always remember her spirit and enthusiasm. She will be sorely missed by her classmates and instructors.”
The family has opted not to have a memorial service, but will host an 18th birthday party celebration for her at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 18, at the family’s farm at 4747 49th St. in Holland.
Contributions to the memorial scholarship can be made to Nickie Naber First-Responder Scholarship Fund, C/O Parda Credit Union, 259 E. 24th St., Holland 49423.
Copyright 2016 Holland Sentinel