Nicole “Nicki” Deanne Febus, age 49, of Park Ridge, IL, passed away peacefully in her home on June 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, after a life lived fully, fearlessly, and with unmatched joy.
Born on September 11, 1975, in Quincy, IL, Nicki was the beloved daughter of Robert and Janice (Schroeder) Febus. She spent much of her childhood in Taylorville, IL, where she developed into a dynamic and driven young woman. A multi-sport athlete and an active member of her community, Nicki graduated from Taylorville High School in 1993, always embracing life with contagious enthusiasm and unwavering determination.
Nicki went on to attend Illinois Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1997. While there, she played on the women’s basketball team and was a proud member of the Sigma Kappa sorority, forming friendships and memories that would last a lifetime.
Following graduation, Nicki set off for San Diego, CA, where she pursued a career in the hotel and resort industry. Her time on the west coast brought exciting opportunities—including working with an NFL team and attending the Super Bowl twice—but it wasn’t long before her heart called her back to the Midwest. Eventually settling in the Chicago area, Nicki began her remarkable career in human resources. She found her professional home at Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), where she served as a Senior Manager for more than a decade. At ICE, Nicki was not only a respected leader but a trusted friend and mentor whose impact was felt deeply across the organization.
Nicki had a natural ability to connect with people. Whether with colleagues, lifelong friends, or strangers who would quickly become friends, she made everyone feel noticed and appreciated. Her warmth, authenticity, and humor left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her presence brightened any space, and she truly made everyone feel like they belonged.
A passionate traveler and avid music lover, Nicki lived for adventures both near and far. She loved attending concerts, cheering on her favorite sports teams, and—most of all—spending time with her treasured family and friends. She filled her life with meaning and joy, inspiring those around her to do the same.
Nicki is survived by her loving parents, Robert and Janice Febus; her sister Kristin (Febus) Foster and brother-in-law John Foster; and her adored nieces, Miriam and Eileen Foster, who looked up to their Aunt Nicki with awe and admiration. She is also survived by her devoted partner, Tom Zubik, and by a wide circle of extended family and friends who loved her fiercely and will miss her deeply.
Nicki’s presence in our lives was a gift. She taught us to live boldly, love generously, and cherish each moment. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit, laughter, and love will remain ever-present in the hearts of those she touched.
Services to commemorate and celebrate Nicki’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville with Pastor Brennan Hurley officiating. The visitation will be held on Monday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville and one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Loyola Medicine’s Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center to support head and neck cancer. The Nicki Febus Fund for Head & Neck Cancer Support has been created to directly support head and neck cancer patients and the phenomenal team that cared for Nicki from the beginning. Gifts can be made at: https://support.loyolamedicine.org/loyola/Nicki-Febus-Fund-Head-Neck-Cancer-Support
Alternatively, checks can be sent and made payable to Loyola University Medical Center, and mail to Loyola University Medical Center, Office of Philanthropy, 2160 S. First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153. Please indicate in the memo that the gift is made in memory of Nicole Febus. Checks can also be placed in a donation basket at the visitation or memorial service and will be mailed to Loyola.
McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
