Nicole "Nikki" Denise Vogle, age 55, passed away on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, after a courageous and long battle with cancer. Nikki was born on January 17, 1969, in Amarillo, Texas, to Linda and James McGowan. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend, whose love and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
Nikki grew up all over Texas and graduated from Rider High School in Wichita Falls in 1987. She pursued a degree in engineering at Texas Tech University before deciding to enlist in the United States Air Force. She proudly served her country for two years before being honorably discharged. After her military service, Nikki embarked on a fulfilling career in civil drafting, where she worked for over 20 years.
Nikki, whose memory will be cherished forever, was not married at the time of her passing but was formerly married to Steven Vogle. Throughout their years together, they built a loving and nurturing home, raising three incredible children: Nathan Vogle, Amanda Vogle Lugo, and Tiffany Vogle. Nikki's greatest joy was watching her children grow and thrive, each embodying her warmth, kindness, and strength. Her legacy continues to live on through their achievements and the countless moments they shared as a family.
Nikki was known for her unwavering love, strength, and selflessness. She had an innate ability to offer support and comfort without ever asking for anything in return. Her family and friends knew her as a constant source of encouragement, someone who always put others’ needs before her own. Whether with her sharp wit, her loving embrace, or her kind words, Nikki made everyone around her feel seen, heard, and valued.
Her faith in God was a cornerstone of her life, and her belief in the goodness of others was evident in everything she did. Nikki’s gentle spirit and boundless optimism were evident in her many passions and hobbies. She was a lover of puzzles, a skilled pool player, and an avid reader, with a special fondness for swimming, drawing, and coloring. Above all, she loved spending time with her family, particularly her grandchildren, who adored their "Nini."
Nikki’s family was the center of her world. She is survived by her parents, Linda and James McGowan; her siblings, Monica Turner and Braden McGowan; her three children, Nathan Vogle, Amanda Lugo, and Tiffany Vogle; and her four cherished grandchildren, Savannah and Mark Vogle (Nathan), and James and Myles Lugo (Amanda). She is also survived by her brother-in-law Tim Turner, sister-in-law Rene McGowan, son-in-law Seth Lugo, daughter-in-law Jessica Vogle, and several nieces and nephews, including Megan McGowan, Dallis McGowan, Olivia Turner, Zachary Johnson, Camila Johnson, and Nicholas Johnson. Her two beloved cats, Salem and Nala, will also miss her.
Nikki was preceded in death by her grandparents, John and Anna Bell Connolly, and James and Marcheata McGowan, and will be reunited with them in the arms of her Heavenly Father.
Nikki’s family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff at WK Cancer Center, especially Dr. McDonald, for their compassionate care. They also wish to thank Nikki’s work family at Raley and Associates for their unwavering support during her journey. Special thanks go to her dear friends Patty Broadway and Tina Grosjean for their unyielding love and friendship.
Nikki’s passing leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew her, but her memory will live on in the lives of those she touched with her love, strength, and unwavering spirit.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Hill Crest Memorial Chapel, followed by a celebration of life at 2:00 pm with Chaplain Jay Valentine officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Nini’s Nest, a charity created in Nikki’s memory. Donations will go to Ochsner LSU St. Mary’s Campus, Pediatric Department—an area Nikki would have absolutely loved supporting.
