Nichole Marie Merrell

Nichole Marie Merrell, 31, of Diamond Springs, CA, passes away on September, 17, 2010. Nichole was born on January 4, 1979 in Fresno, CA and was raised in Sacramento. She is survived by her two children, Nolan (14) and Ava ( 5) Torres of Diamond Springs. Her Mother, Irene Schmitz and Step-father, Bill Schmitz of Citrus Heights, CA. She had two brothers, Matthew and his wife Dena Merrell of Fresno and their children, Jadi, Robert and Anthony Merrell of Citrus Heights, CA. Her Dad, Stan Merrell and Step-mother, Shelley Steward of Santa Rosa, CA. Step-sister, Elisa Smith and her husband, Russ of Vallejo, CA. Step-brother, Daniel Bongiovanni, Santa Rosa, CA. Nichole’s best and close friend, Misty Greenwell of Placerville. Misty was Nichole’s part time in-home care assistant. Misty was great medicine for Nichole. They would laugh and joke around and spent endless hours on facebook together. Her good neighbor Mary Smith who was always there to lend an ear, shoulder or a big hug, whichever was needed at the time. A good friend, Robert Torres of Roseville, and Nichole spent a big part of their lives together but sadly separated just before her illness took a turn for the worse. They did remain friends. Josh of Carmichael, CA was Nichole’s boyfriend and was with her to the end. He loved her very much. Nichole was a happy, beautiful, free spirited young woman. She loved her children so much and everything she did was for them. She’s not here physically but we all know there is an Angel above that has beautiful hazel eyes and shiny auburn hair. We know Nichole is up there walking, running, and dancing on the shore of the beach. We will miss you so much and we love you Nichole. It’s going to be hard not seeing your beautiful face each day. Nichole cremated remains were scattered by her friends and family by Treasure Island in the San Francisco Bay. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a trust fund for Nolan and Ava Torres or a donation to the Cure for Devecs through our website at http://guthyjacksonfoundation.org/donate.php or by check to The Guthy –Jackson Charitable Foundation 8910 University Center Lane. If you have questions about the donations, please call Irene at 916-705-3171. Condolences may be offered at www.chapelofthepinesfunerals.com. Arrangements by Chapel of the Pines Crematory and Funeral Home, Placerville.