Krista C. Nicklaus

Krista C. Nicklaus, 69, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in the arms of those who knew her as a devoted mother, grandmother, and wife. Krista was born December 19, 1955 in Seaton, Illinois, the daughter of James & Violet (Van Eaton) Davis. She was united in marriage to Larry D. Nicklaus on February 13, 2010, in Costa Rica. 

She is survived by her devoted husband, Larry; her loving children and their spouses, C.J. & Nicole Tracy of Fort Dodge, Iowa, Heather Tracy and Jay Jaroch of Costa Rica and California, Brad & Lindsay Tracy of St. Charles, Illinois, and Neesha and Jon Nicklaus-Soulliere of Estero, Florida. She is also survived by her mother, Violet Davis of Seaton; her sister, Paula Davis of Burlington, Iowa; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Dean & Bonnie Davis of St. Charles, Illinois and Jamie & Jean Davis of Rapid City, South Dakota; her nieces and nephew, Toni Stirn, Rebecca Cuiba, Amanda Lange, and James Davis, as well as her five treasured grandchildren: Malorie, Jed, Bo, and Cole Tracy, and Luca Jaroch. 

Krista was preceded in death by her father, Jim Davis. 

Krista grew up on a farm near Seaton, Illinois, and loved playing with her siblings and many cousins, singing in the show choir, playing in the band, twirling with the majorettes, cooking and sewing, and spreading cheer wherever she went with family and friends. She raised her children in Aledo, Illinois, and never missed a sports game, concert, or opportunity to be a loving and supportive parent for her children and her children’s friends. She was fun, energetic and welcoming to everyone - whether it was in her own home or at one of the various offices she managed throughout her career. Krista found true love, respectful partnership, and a lifetime of laughter and fun with her devoted husband, Larry. Krista and Larry made friends wherever they went thanks to their open minds, warm personalities, and desire to explore and experience all the magical moments life had to offer. 

Krista will always be remembered for her bright, sparkling eyes, her warm and ever-present smile, and the boundless positive energy she carried with her. Her deep faith guided her, and her comforting cooking and baking brought joy to all who gathered around her table. But above all, she will be cherished for her unwavering devotion to her family. She never missed an event or a milestone, always showing up as the most loving and supportive presence—not just for her own children, but later, for her treasured grandchildren. Her legacy is one of endless love, encouragement, and selfless dedication, a presence that will forever be felt in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. 

A celebration of Krista’s life will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025, at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home in Bettendorf with the visitation prior to the service from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.. Attire will be casual or business casual, and those attending are invited to wear something pink or blue to celebrate Krista’s favorite colors. Flowers and plants are appreciated, as are donations to the Melanoma Research Alliance, though Krista is just as likely to tell you to use that money to bake something special and gather with your loved ones. 

Service details and online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting Krista’s obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.